Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere has emerged as the Minority Leader-designate of the House of Representatives after securing the backing of 61 opposition lawmakers.

Documents obtained by The Whistler indicate that the lawmakers, drawn from various opposition parties, formally nominated Ugochinyere for the position and submitted their endorsement to the Speaker of the House. The Speaker is expected to make an official announcement at the next plenary session.

The development follows the vacancy created by the exit of former Minority Leader, , who defected to the  (APC). Chinda has also emerged as the APC governorship candidate in Rivers State.

The endorsing lawmakers were drawn from multiple opposition parties, including the ,  (ADC),  (APGA),  (PRP),  (LP),  (APP),  (APM),  (SDP), and  (AP).

Sources within the opposition caucus disclosed that the nomination was transmitted to the Speaker in line with Order 7 Rule 7 of the House Standing Orders.

The lawmakers also revealed that consultations are ongoing regarding other vacant minority leadership positions, including Deputy Minority Leader and Minority Whip. One of the positions is reportedly zoned to a member of the NDC from the North-West.

Explaining their decision, the lawmakers cited Ugochinyere’s legislative performance, noting that he has sponsored and moved over 40 bills, motions, and petitions within three years. 

They also highlighted his prior experience as a Senior Adviser to the Senate President.