By Sodiq Adelakun
A heated confrontation erupted in the Senate on Wednesday between Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and Senator Adams Oshiomhole, following recent amendments to the chamber’s Standing Rules that tighten eligibility for leadership positions.
The clash occurred during plenary while Akpabio was reading the Votes and Proceedings from the previous sitting.
Oshiomhole attempted to raise a point of order, but the Senate President ruled him out, citing provisions of the Senate Standing Orders 2023 (as amended), which do not permit such interventions at that stage.
Despite the ruling, Oshiomhole persisted, prompting Akpabio to seek clarification from former Chief Whip, Orji Uzor Kalu, who confirmed that points of order are not allowed during consideration of proceedings.
The situation escalated as Senate Whip Tahir Monguno warned Oshiomhole against further disruption, cautioning that disciplinary action could be taken.
Akpabio, visibly displeased, resumed proceedings and urged lawmakers to familiarise themselves with the rules, warning that unruly conduct would not be tolerated. “If you become unruly, we will use the rules to take you out of the Senate,” he said.
Normalcy was later restored after Senator Adamu Aliero moved a motion for the adoption of the Votes and Proceedings, seconded by Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro.
READ ALSO:Tinubu’s reforms rebuilding economic pillars states can depend on — Shettima
The disagreement is believed to be linked to the Senate’s recent amendment of Orders 4 and 5 of its Standing Rules, which introduced stricter criteria for leadership roles in the 11th Senate.
Under the revised rules, nominations for presiding officers must follow ranking hierarchy—from former Senate Presidents to second-term senators—while only lawmakers who have served at least two consecutive terms are eligible to contest for principal offices.
The new provisions effectively disqualify first-term senators, including Oshiomhole, from vying for key leadership positions, a development that has stirred tension within the Red Chamber.
