Senate rescinds amendment to standing orders

The Nigerian Senate has rescinded its recent amendments to the Senate Standing Orders during a live plenary session on Thursday, May 7, 2026.

The decision comes just two days after the initial changes were made, as lawmakers identified potential conflicts with the Nigerian Constitution.

The Senate leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele addressing the chamber, highlighted that further legislative and constitutional reviews of the amendments specifically those under Order 2, Subsection 2, and Order 3, Subsection 1 could lead to unintended tensions and legal friction with the 1999 Constitution.

The leader emphasized the necessity of maintaining a legislative framework that aligns perfectly with established parliamentary conventions and the supreme law of the land.

During the session, the Senate leader provided the following operative statements regarding the proposed changes and the subsequent move to rescind them, “But a member may, before taking the oath, take part in the election of the President and a Deputy President of the Senate, as the case may be, or a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives.”

“In other words, Mr. President and distinguished colleagues, election of presiding officers will have to take place, as it had always been, before distinguished Senators and honourable members of the House of Representatives take their oath.”

“Senate observes that upon further legislative and constitutional review, certain provisions introduced under Order 2, Subsection 2, and Order 3, Subsection 1, may give rise to constitutional inconsistencies and unintended tensions with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as altered, particularly Section 52 thereof.”

“Senate notes that it is necessary to ensure that the Standing Orders of the Senate remain fully consistent with constitutional provisions, established parliamentary conventions, and legislative practice.”

“Senate further notes that the Senate possesses the inherent parliamentary authority to revisit, rescind, and recommit any matter previously decided upon in order to preserve the integrity of its proceedings and legislative framework.”

“Senate accordingly resolves to rescind its earlier decisions relating to the amendments made to Order 2, Subsection 2.”

By rescinding these earlier decisions, the Senate aims to protect the integrity of its proceedings and avoid potential legal challenges.

The move reflects a cautious approach to internal governance, ensuring that the rules governing the election of presiding officers do not inadvertently violate Section 52 of the Constitution.