The lawmaker representing Abua/Odual and Ahoada East Federal Constituency in Rivers State, Solomon Bob, has called out Ikenga Ugochinyere, the spokesperson for opposition lawmakers in the House of Representatives, for interfering in issues concerning Rivers State.
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, Bob accused Ugochinyere, who represents a constituency in Imo State, of ignoring his responsibilities at home to meddle in Rivers affairs. He argued that only lawmakers from Rivers have the authority to speak on matters affecting the state, emphasizing that Ugochinyere’s actions are creating unnecessary tension.
Bob claimed that Ugochinyere is being influenced by a Rivers indigene to push certain agendas and urged him to focus on tackling pressing issues in Imo, such as the insecurity that has paralyzed activities on Mondays.
He also criticized Ugochinyere’s contributions in the House of Representatives, stating that he has not seen him actively participating in legislative duties like lobbying or meaningful lawmaking since his election.
Bob referenced sections of the Constitution that, according to him, restrict lawmakers to representing their own constituencies. He called on the Speaker of the House to intervene and remove Ugochinyere from his position as chairman of a standing committee, questioning how a first-term lawmaker could hold such a role.
“This isn’t personal,” Bob said. “It’s about respecting boundaries and focusing on the real issues that matter to the people we represent.”
The Rivers lawmaker also revealed that he and other caucus members had written to the House leadership, urging them to address Ugochinyere’s actions and restore order.
This development highlights ongoing friction among lawmakers as they navigate their responsibilities and political allegiances within the National Assembly.