61 opposition lawmakers back Ugochinyere for House Minority Leader

A majority of opposition lawmakers in Nigeria's House of Representatives, numbering 61, have formally endorsed Imo lawmaker Ikenga Ugochinyere to fill the vacant Minority Leader seat. The position became available after the previous Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda, defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress.

Ugochinyere's nomination, supported by lawmakers from various opposition parties including the African Democratic Congress, Labour Party, and All Progressives Grand Alliance, was submitted to Speaker Tajudeen Abbas. Documents indicate that 61 out of 81 opposition members signed the nomination, signifying broad support across party, regional, and religious lines.

Lawmakers backing Ugochinyere highlighted his legislative experience and contributions, noting his prior role as Senior Special Adviser to a Senate President. They asserted that their action aligns with the House Rules, which allow minority members to elect their leadership. Consultations are reportedly ongoing to finalize the positions of Deputy Minority Leader and Minority Whip.

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the House of Representatives Standing Orders, particularly Order 7, Rule 7, provide that members of the minority caucus shall elect among themselves those who will occupy minority leadership positions.