Proceedings in the Nigerian Senate were thrown into disarray on Wednesday following a heated confrontation between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Adams Oshiomhole over the interpretation of amended standing rules.
The tension began when Akpabio started reading the Votes and Proceedings from Tuesday’s sitting. Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North) interrupted with a point of order, prompting the Senate President to remind him that, under the Senate’s Standing Orders 2023 (as amended), points of order are typically not entertained during that stage.
Despite the clarification, Oshiomhole persisted, leading Akpabio to invite former Chief Whip Orji Uzor Kalu to weigh in. Kalu backed the Senate President’s position, reiterating that raising a point of order at that moment was not in line with procedure.
The situation escalated as Oshiomhole continued speaking, drawing a warning from Senate Whip Tahir Monguno, who cautioned that disciplinary measures could be invoked if the disruption persisted.
Akpabio proceeded with the session, referencing specific pages of the proceedings, but the Edo North lawmaker remained vocal, insisting that senators must properly understand the rules, citing Order 20 in his argument.
In response, Akpabio issued a stern warning, stating that lawmakers must be familiar with Senate procedures and cautioning Oshiomhole against further disruption. He warned that persistent unruly behaviour could attract sanctions under the chamber’s rules.
Order was eventually restored, and the Senate concluded the session with Senator Adamu Aliero moving a motion for the adoption of the Votes and Proceedings, seconded by Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro.
The altercation is believed to be linked to the recent amendment of the Senate’s standing rules approved during Tuesday’s sitting.
