US sex scandal: Dogara tasks investigative committee on thorough exercise

Yakubu Dogara, Speaker of the House of Representatives has flagged off the investigation into the alleged sexual impropriety involving three members.

The three lawmakers are: Mohammed Garba Gololo (APC-Bauchi), Samuel Ikon (PDP-Akwa Ibom) and Mark Gbillah (APC-Benue).

The resolution was passed following the adoption of the motion sponsored by Gbillah, who challenged the US Ambassador, James Entwistle to appear at the public hearing and provide evidence on the alleged sex scandal.

Coming under Order 6, Rule 20 and 22, Gbillah who noted that the media had been awash with the news of the sex scandal involving him and two other lawmakers, however dismissed the allegation.

He added that none of the accused lawmakers was interrogated in US and Nigeria before arriving at the conclusion.
“In the last couple of days, the Nigerian media has been awash with allegations against me and two other members.
“The United States Ambassador alleged that one of us grabbed a housekeeper, and that two of us asked an attendant for prostitutes. I want to state categorically that no such incident occurred.
“None of the accused has been given fair hearing, but the Ambassador has concluded. We are in the eye of the storm. We demand that justice be done and we will not relent until this matter is resolved.
“Nigerians should realize that even though we are in the eyes of the storm, this is something that is calculated to smear the image of the members and the institution that we represent.
“I love my wife and have never cheated on her. I travel with my wife and I have eyes only for my wife, I dare the US government and the Ambassador to prove the allegation,” Gbillah said.
While speaking on the House resolution, Lado Suleja (APC-Niger) assured that the House will conduct thorough investigation into the allegation in the bid to protect the integrity of the House.
The joint Committee on Ethics and Privileges and Foreign Affairs, chaired by Nicholas Ossai (PDP-Delta) is to interface with all the parties involved in the sex scandal which occurred during the International Visitor Leadership Program held between 7th and 13th April, 2016 in Cleveland, Ohio.
Also speaking, Nnenna Ukeje, chairperson, House Committee on Foreign Affairs urged that the matter should be dealt with utmost responsiveness.
She therefore called on Nigerians to wait for the outcome of the report and not to jump into conclusion.
While addressing the lawmakers at plenary, the Speaker urged the joint Committee to ensure a detailed investigation into the issue in order to allow the House make an informed decision on the matter.
Dogara who assured that the House will be made public and implemented to the fullest, urged anyone with useful information to approach the joint committee.
“This is a serious matter and it is not about the three lawmakers alone, the House as an institution.
“I have directed the Committees on Ethics and Privileges and Foreign Affairs to investigate the matter before we take action.
“Anybody who has any proof or evidence can direct them to the committee,” Dogara stated.
The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, James Entwistle had via a letter dated 9th June, 2016, to the Speaker of the House accused the three lawmakers of sexual impropriety.