House of Representatives Speaks Out on $150m Bribery Allegation
The House of Representatives has urged the public to rely on verified facts and not be misled by recycled claims aimed at discrediting Nigerian institutions and public officials. This statement comes after Binance, a cryptocurrency giant, alleged that three members of the House of Representatives demanded a $150m bribe from its head of financial compliance, Tigran Gambaryan.
The three members accused are Ginger Onwusibe, Philip Agbese, and Peter Akpanke. However, both Agbese and Onwusibe have dismissed the claims, vowing to use the instrument of the law to clear their names. According to the House, these allegations, which have been previously circulated last year, are directed at individual members, not the institution itself.
In a statement signed by the Spokesman, Akin Rotimi, the House emphasized its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the protection of Nigeria’s democratic institutions. The House also noted that it upholds due process, the rule of law, and constitutional oversight as an independent arm of government.
The Honourable members named have assured the House leadership that they never had any such dealings as reported. One of the members has already instituted legal action to clear his name, while others affected have been encouraged to do the same in pursuit of justice and the protection of their reputations.
The matter has evolved into a government-to-government engagement, with the active involvement of both the Nigerian and United States governments. Notably, in the course of high-level diplomatic discussions, the Federal Government of Nigeria has prioritized national interest over external commercial pressure, including rejecting financial settlement offers from Binance.
These facts raise serious questions about the credibility and intent of the allegations being peddled. The House has urged the public to be cautious and not jump to conclusions based on unverified information.
With the matter already before a court of competent jurisdiction and remains the subject of ongoing diplomatic engagements, the House will refrain from further comment in line with established parliamentary, judicial, and diplomatic principles.
The House of Representatives has assured the public that it will continue to uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and due process in its dealings, and will not be swayed by baseless allegations aimed at discrediting Nigerian institutions and public officials.
