Tension in Senate as Akpabio warns Oshiomhole during rules dispute

A brief but intense standoff disrupted Senate proceedings on Wednesday as Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Adams Oshiomhole clashed over the interpretation of amended standing orders.

The incident occurred while Akpabio was reading Tuesday’s Votes and Proceedings, when Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North) raised a point of order. Akpabio immediately reminded him that, according to the amended Standing Order 2023, points of order are not typically entertained during that segment.

When Oshiomhole insisted, Akpabio asked Senator Orji Kalu (APC, Abia North) to explain the rule. Kalu reaffirmed that such interventions were not allowed at that stage.

Still undeterred, Oshiomhole continued speaking, drawing a warning from Chief Whip Tahir Monguno (APC, Borno North), who threatened to invoke disciplinary measures if the disruption continued.

As Akpabio resumed reading, Oshiomhole again interjected, urging lawmakers to properly study the rules and citing Order 20.

Clearly irritated, Akpabio remarked, “We should not just go home, buy forms and come here without knowing the rules,” and warned: “Oshiomhole, if you become unruly, we will use the rules to take you out of the Senate.”

The tension eventually eased, allowing the chamber to adopt the Votes and Proceedings after a motion by Senator Adamu Aliero, seconded by Senator Abba Moro.

Observers say Oshiomhole’s reaction may be tied to the Senate’s recent amendment of its rules, which significantly alters eligibility criteria for leadership positions ahead of the 2027 elections.

The revised framework limits contests for presiding and principal offices to senators who have served at least two consecutive terms, effectively restricting eligibility to members of the 9th and 10th assemblies.

The changes followed a three-hour closed-door session, during which Orders 4 and 5 were amended to emphasise seniority and continuity.

Order 4 outlines a hierarchy for leadership nominations based on prior service, while Order 5 states: “Any Senator shall not be eligible to contest for any Principal Office of the Senate unless he has served as a Senator for at least two consecutive terms immediately preceding nomination.”

This means only returning members of the current Senate will qualify for leadership roles in the next assembly, effectively excluding new entrants from the 11th National Assembly.

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