Reps Deny Rift between Speaker Abbas, Deputy Kalu

The Nigerian House of Representatives has dismissed claims of a rift between Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.

The House also refuted allegations that members bribed their way into key committee positions.

In a statement issued by House Spokesperson Akin Rotimi Jnr on Wednesday, the House clarified that the recent dissolution of the Joint Ad Hoc Committee on Midstream and Downstream Petroleum adhered to the 1999 Constitution and the House’s standing rules.

Rotimi stated that the House’s internal mechanisms are supported by Section 60 of the 1999 Constitution, which grants it the authority to regulate its own procedures.

He said: “The leadership of the House reserves the right to disband or dissolve an ad hoc committee as needed.”

The statement also addressed rumors of bribery, asserting: “At no point did the House leadership or any individual receive inducements for committee appointments. The Selection Committee, which included members from all states of the federation, diligently executed these appointments between June and July 2023.”

Rotimi refuted the notion of discord between the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker, affirming: “There is no rift between the two. They maintain a strong, respectful relationship and are committed to their duties without internal conflicts.”

The House urged journalists to verify information before publication and to avoid spreading misinformation.

It reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and openness with the public and media.