A Senate rules clash disrupted plenary proceedings as Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Adams Oshiomhole engaged in a heated exchange over the interpretation of newly amended standing rules. The disagreement, which lasted several minutes, followed recent changes to the Senate’s leadership eligibility criteria ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Senate had, a day earlier, amended its Standing Orders to introduce stricter requirements for eligibility into presiding and principal offices. The revised rules stipulate that only senators who have served at least two consecutive terms immediately preceding nomination can contest for leadership positions.
This amendment followed a closed-door session and effectively narrows the field of eligible candidates for the 11th National Assembly. It also alters the previous provision that allowed any ranking senator with at least one term to contest such positions.
The development has generated debate within the chamber, forming the basis of the current Senate rules clash during plenary.
Proceedings turned tense when Akpabio began reading the Votes and Proceedings of the previous sitting. Oshiomhole attempted to raise a point of order but was overruled, as the Senate President cited provisions of the Standing Orders that prohibit such interruptions at that stage.
Despite the clarification, Oshiomhole persisted, prompting Akpabio to call on Senator Orji Kalu to explain the rule. Kalu supported the Senate President’s position that a point of order was not admissible at that moment.
The situation escalated as Oshiomhole continued speaking, leading to warnings from the Senate leadership. Senate Chief Whip Tahir Monguno cautioned that disciplinary measures could be invoked if disruptions continued.
Akpabio also issued a direct warning during the Senate rules clash, stating, “Oshiomhole, if you become unruly, we will use the rules to take you out of the Senate.”
The exchange briefly disrupted proceedings before order was restored. The Senate subsequently adopted the Votes and Proceedings after a motion moved by Senator Adamu Aliero and seconded by Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro.
The Senate rules clash highlights internal tensions over the recent amendment, which has significant implications for leadership contests in the next Assembly. By restricting eligibility to senators with consecutive terms, the rule limits participation of first-term and incoming lawmakers.
The development may influence political calculations among current and prospective senators, particularly those positioning for leadership roles ahead of 2027. It also underscores the role of procedural rules in shaping legislative power dynamics.
