Amidst NNPCL signature controversy: Rep. Agbese backs Ibori-Suenu, 1 agenda movement

By Christiana Ekpa

Rep. Philip Agbese, representing Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency, has thrown his weight behind Hon. Ibori-Suenu Erhiatake and the 1 Agenda Movement amid allegations of fake signatures supporting the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
In a statement, Agbese expressed his “utmost respect and support” for Ibori-Suenu, a senior parliamentarian and convener of the 1 Agenda Movement, saying she has the best interest of the parliament and nation at heart.
He acknowledged that Ibori-Suenu’s recent actions may have been misinterpreted, but attested to her strong commitment to investigating the oil and gas sector and supporting President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Agbese urged fellow lawmakers and Nigerians to support Ibori-Suenu and the 1 Agenda Movement’s efforts to reform the sector, saying their priority should be the nation’s interest, not personal agendas.
He called for unity in upholding the integrity of the parliament and serving the nation with honesty and transparency.
He said “As the House of Representatives continues to navigate complex national issues, I am compelled to address the recent publication attributed to the 1 Agenda group. Specifically, allegations have been made regarding the authenticity of signatures appended to a document purportedly supporting the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
“While I understand the concerns raised, I want to emphasise my utmost respect and support for Hon. Ibori-Suenu Erhiatake, a senior parliamentarian and convener of the 1 Agenda Movement. I believe she has the best interest of the parliament and the nation at heart, and her dedication to the well-being of our country is evident. I have no doubt she is guided by a strong sense of patriotism. Unfortunately, her recent actions may have been misinterpreted or misunderstood by some.”