The PDP Unity and Progressive Vanguard has warned Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, against tolerating what it described as “the dangerous antics” of Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, cautioning that his actions could destabilize the lower chamber if left unchecked.
In a statement signed by its president, Barrister Larry Onyeke, and national secretary, Grace Agbo, the group said Ugochinyere’s outbursts following the emergence of Hon. Fred Agbedi as PDP caucus leader represent a pattern of political sabotage that threatens legislative stability.
“Speaker Abbas must be vigilant. The House of Representatives cannot afford to become a battleground for the personal grudges and factional ambitions of one man,” part of the statement read.
Describing Ugochinyere’s framing of Agbedi’s election as a “revolution” as both misleading and divisive, the group accused the lawmaker of waging a campaign to delegitimize leadership structures within the PDP caucus and disrupt internal cohesion.
They also defended the minority leader, Hon. Kingsley Chinda, who came under fire in Ugochinyere’s recent remarks.
“Hon. Chinda is a respected parliamentarian who has led the minority caucus with distinction, navigating difficult terrain with maturity and skill. To reduce his leadership to ‘acting a script’ is both defamatory and unserious,” the group said.
They challenged Ugochinyere to produce evidence of wrongdoing rather than issuing “innuendo-laden press statements.”
The Vanguard further alleged that Ugochinyere’s actions resemble a proxy battle on behalf of “external power centers” bent on fracturing the PDP from within.
It referenced his role in the Rivers State political crisis, describing him as a “chief amplifier of toxic narratives” that escalated tensions in the state.
“We have not forgotten how this same lawmaker inserted himself into the Rivers crisis, trading inflammatory statements and fanning the embers of conflict — all under the guise of protecting democracy,” the group said.
According to the statement, Ugochinyere’s controversial political style, including his public criticism of fellow PDP members and alleged neglect of legislative duties despite chairing a key petroleum committee, points to conduct unbecoming of a federal lawmaker.
“This is not about disagreement, but about conduct that undermines the very institution he swore to serve. The Speaker must not sit back and watch the House of Representatives become hostage to a campaign of innuendo, insult, and incitement,” the group added.
They urged Speaker Abbas to act swiftly to preserve the integrity of the House and protect it from personalized political vendettas.
“If the Speaker fails to rein in this lawmaker, he risks allowing the House to be dragged into personalized vendettas that have nothing to do with legislative service or the wellbeing of Nigerians,” the statement said.
The group also called on PDP lawmakers to remain focused on their legislative responsibilities and not be distracted by internal squabbles.
“We must not allow a few loud voices to hijack the caucus or dictate its agenda. The PDP is bigger than any one person, and the House must reflect that strength, not weakness,” the group concluded.