Tolani Shagaya Denies Involvement in Controversial Publication
Tolani Shagaya, a member of the Nigerian House of Representatives, has distanced himself from a controversial publication attributed to a coalition known as "1 AGENDA." The publication, titled "NNPCL: A Call for Caution," listed Shagaya among 120 lawmakers purportedly supporting the statement.
However, in a statement signed by him on Monday in Abuja, Shagaya clarified his position, stating that he is neither a member of the coalition nor aware of its existence until the publication of the statement. He emphasized that he did not sign any statement, nor was he consulted or informed about it. The inclusion of his name, listed as number 62 among the supposed supporters, is both unauthorized and misleading.
Shagaya emphasized the importance of due process and fair hearing, especially concerning matters involving the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority. He noted that silence on matters such as this can often be misinterpreted as concurrence, which is why he is compelled to speak out.
"I urge the general public to disregard any association of my name with the ‘1 AGENDA’ statement," Shagaya said. He also called upon "1 AGENDA" to retract the publication and issue a public apology for the unauthorized use of his name, stating that such actions undermine the integrity of the legislative process and mislead the public.
Shagaya reaffirmed his commitment to his constituents and the principles of transparency, accountability, and due process in legislative activities. As the Deputy Chairman of the Committee on Basic Education & Services, he said he would continue to advocate for fairness and clarity in all governmental affairs.
The controversy surrounding the publication has sparked concerns about the integrity of the legislative process and the potential for misunderstandings. Shagaya’s statement aims to clarify his position and emphasize the importance of due process and transparency in legislative activities.
