The member representing Ado/Okpokwu/ Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue state in the House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese said on Sunday that efforts at reforming the nation’s oil and gas sector were in the overall national interest.
Agbese’s earlier call for the sack of the Group Chief Executive Officer of the NNPCL has attracted a reaction from his colleagues who argued that the call for the sack of Mele Kyari was premature.
Different groups have emerged in the House expressing support for the NNPCL boss while calling for a fair forensic investigation into happenings in the oil sector following a motion adopted by the House.
There have been allegations that the recent group under the auspices of 1 Agenda comprising about 120 members of the House received some inducement to support the oil Kyari.
However, in a statement on Sunday, August 4, Agbese said the House and members of the 1 Agenda group were interested in creating a more transparent and accountable system that benefits all.
He said the priority of the group is the nation’s interest, not personal agendas. Let us work together to uphold the integrity of the parliament and serve the nation with honesty and transparency.
Read Also: Interrogating Olanipekun’s musings at Babcock University
The statement reads: “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.
“However, I can confidently attest that her commitment to the forensic investigation of the oil and gas sector and President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda remains strong. We share a common goal: to ensure that the sector serves the best interests of the Nigerian people.
“Therefore, I urge my fellow lawmakers and Nigerians to join me in supporting Hon. Ibori-Suenu and the 1 Agenda Movement’s efforts to reform the sector. Together, we can create a more transparent and accountable system that benefits all.
“Our priority is the nation’s interest, not personal agendas. Let us work together to uphold the integrity of the parliament and serve the nation with honesty and transparency.”