Senate Erupts as Akpabio, Oshiomhole Clash Over Rules

The Nigerian Senate in Abuja on Wednesday was thrown into confusion for about 15 minutes after Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Adams Oshiomhole clashed over how to apply the chamber’s amended Standing Rules during plenary.

The tension started when Akpabio began reading the Votes and Proceedings from the previous sitting and Oshiomhole raised a point of order at that stage. The Senate President immediately ruled him out, referring to the 2023 rules which do not allow such interruptions during that part of proceedings.

Oshiomhole refused to back down and continued to press his point, which led to further disagreement on the floor.As the situation grew tense, Akpabio asked Senator Orji Uzor Kalu to clarify the rules. Kalu supported the position of the Senate President, stating that raising a point of order at that moment was not allowed.

Despite this, Oshiomhole continued speaking, drawing warnings from the leadership of the chamber.Chief Whip Tahir Monguno then cautioned that disciplinary measures could be taken if the disruption did not stop. Akpabio also warned that any member who failed to follow the rules could face removal from the chamber if the conduct continued.After repeated interventions, calm was restored and the Senate moved on with its work.

Senator Adamu Aliero later moved a motion for the adoption of the Votes and Proceedings, which was seconded by Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro, allowing the session to continue.The disagreement is linked to recent changes made by the Senate to its Standing Rules as political activities build up towards the 2027 elections.

The amendment to Orders 4 and 5 now limits eligibility for key leadership positions such as Senate President and Deputy Senate President to lawmakers who have served at least two consecutive terms, including the current one.

The new rule has narrowed the chances for first-time senators and has added tension within the chamber, as members adjust to the updated procedures and their implications for future leadership contests.