Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator representing the Edo North Senatorial District, Adams Oshiomhole, clashed on Wednesday, barely 24 hours after the Senate amended its standing rules to restrict eligibility for presiding offices.
PUNCH Online reports that trouble started when Akpabio began the reading of the Votes and Proceedings of Tuesday’s sitting.
The disagreement disrupted the plenary for about 10 minutes.
Oshiomhole raised a point of order, but the Senate President reminded him that such interventions are not allowed at that stage under the Senate Standing Orders 2023 (as amended).
When Oshiomhole persisted, Akpabio called on former Chief Whip, Senator Orji Kalu, to clarify the rule.
Kalu reportedly confirmed that no point of order is permitted during the consideration of Votes and Proceedings.
Despite the explanation, Oshiomhole continued to press his objection, prompting the Senate Whip, Senator Tahir Monguno, to caution him against further disruption, warning that disciplinary measures could be invoked.
Akpabio then proceeded with the session, directing attention to pages 194 and 195 of the Votes and Proceedings, while urging lawmakers to be familiar with the rules.
“We should not just go home, buy forms and come here without knowing the rules,” he said.
The Senate President also issued a stern warning to Oshiomhole, cautioning him against further disorderly conduct.
“Oshiomhole, if you become unruly, we will use the rules to take you out of the Senate,” Akpabio said.
The proceedings later continued without further incident, with Senator Adamu Aliero moving for the adoption of the Votes and Proceedings, seconded by Senate Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro.
Oshiomhole’s confrontation is believed to be linked to the Senate’s recent amendment of its standing rules, which introduced stricter eligibility requirements for leadership positions in the 11th Senate.
The Senate had, after a closed-door session, amended Orders 4 and 5 of its Standing Rules, tightening eligibility for presiding and principal offices.
Under the amended rules, only senators who have served at least two consecutive terms immediately preceding nomination are eligible to contest presiding offices.
Under the new Order 4, nominations for presiding officers must strictly follow ranking, from former Senate Presidents to second-term senators.
Order 5 also provides that only senators who have served at least two consecutive terms are eligible to contest for principal offices.
The development effectively disqualifies Oshiomhole and other first-term senators from vying for a presiding office.
(Punch)
