Drama erupted in the Senate on Wednesday as Senator Adams Oshiomhole clashed with Senate President Godswill Akpabio, just 24 hours after the chamber amended its standing orders to restrict eligibility for the Senate Presidency.
The tension began when Akpabio started reading the votes and proceedings from the previous day’s sitting.
Oshiomhole rose to raise a point of order, but Akpabio immediately intervened, reminding him that such interruptions are not permitted at that stage under the Senate Standing Orders 2023 (as amended).
Despite the reminder, Oshiomhole continued to speak, prompting Akpabio to call upon the former Chief Whip, Senator Orji Kalu, to clarify the procedural rule.
Even after Kalu’s explanation, Oshiomhole persisted with his objection.
The situation escalated when the Senate Whip, Senator Tahir Monguno, cautioned Oshiomhole against further disruption, warning that disciplinary measures could be invoked.
Ignoring the warning, Akpabio attempted to proceed with the session by directing the lawmakers’ attention to pages 194 and 195 of the Votes and Proceedings, urging them to familiarize themselves with the rules.
Oshiomhole fired back, insisting on his right to raise the point of order.
A visibly angry Akpabio then issued a stern warning to the former Edo State Governor, stating, “If you become unruly, we will use the rules to take you out of the Senate.”