Ogene denies embezzling N1bn, says blackmailers at work
By Jeffrey Agbo
A member of the House of Representatives, Afam Ogene, has denied rumours that he, alongside his other colleagues, embezzled N1 billion meant for their various constituencies, attributing the claims to malicious blackmailers.
Ogene, representing Ogbaru Federal Constituency, made this clarification following widespread rumours circulating within Ogbaru communities, particularly on social media, that the lawmaker, along with other federal lawmakers, received N1 billion each from the Federal Government for their constituencies and misappropriated it for personal gain.
Ogene vehemently debunked the rumour, stating that neither he nor any lawmaker received such funds. He attributed the false accusations to wicked blackmailers who maliciously spread unfounded claims in order to destroy reputation of others before the people.
Ogene, who is the Chairman of House Committee on Renewable Energy, stated this in a meeting with traditional rulers, presidents-generals of communities, delegates and other stakeholders during the second anniversary town hall meeting and presentation of scorecard on Thursday, July 3 in Atani, Anambra State. He revealed that lawmakers were only asked to recommend projects of N1 billion each for inclusion in the 2025 budget, for their individual constituencies, which were also captured in the current budget that is awaiting implementation by the executive.
He said that his service to the people would continuously be guided by objectivity, sensibility and utmost responsibility. “As I earlier pledged, I will continue to lead from the front, prioritizing the interest, peace, development and progress of Ogbaru in every decision and step I make as your representative,” he assured.
The projects for Ogbaru Federal Constituency include electricity, solar streetlights, water schemes, provision of security vehicles for vigilante, provision of science equipment in schools, construction and equipping of exam halls, training and empowerment of women and youths and construction of cottage hospital, among others.
The lawmaker also revealed in his scorecard presentation that he has sponsored 19 bills and 12 motions in two years.
In the past six months, Ogene has also facilitated the installation of streetlights in 27 different communities and locations in Ogbaru Federal Constituency.
Over 250 constituents, including women and youths have also benefited from training and empowerment programmes in different fields including solar technology, ICT, fishery and clean cooking. Each of the beneficiaries also received financial grants and relevant empowerment materials from the lawmaker.
