Akpabio, Oshiomhole Clash Over Senate Rules

A heated exchange broke out on Wednesday between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Adams Oshiomhole, just one day after the Senate amended its standing rules to tighten eligibility for presiding offices.

The tension began when Akpabio started reading the Votes and Proceedings from Tuesday’s sitting. Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North) raised a point of order, but Akpabio ruled him out, citing the Senate Standing Orders 2023 as amended, which disallow such interventions at that stage.

Oshiomhole persisted. Akpabio then asked former Chief Whip Orji Kalu to clarify the rule. Kalu confirmed that no point of order is permitted during the consideration of Votes and Proceedings.

Despite this, Oshiomhole continued to press his objection. Senate Whip Tahir Monguno then stepped in, cautioning him against further disruption and warning that disciplinary measures could be invoked.

Akpabio proceeded with the session, directing attention to pages 194 and 195 of the Votes and Proceedings and advising lawmakers to familiarise themselves with the rules.

“We should not just go home, buy forms and come here without knowing the rules,” he said.

The Senate President then issued a stern warning to Oshiomhole.

“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. Senator Adamu Aliero moved to adopt the Votes and Proceedings, seconded by Senate Minority Leader 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.

Under the amended rules, only senators who have served at least two consecutive terms immediately preceding nomination are eligible to contest presiding offices. The development effectively disqualifies Oshiomhole from vying for a presiding office.