LunagisthubAkpabio vs Oshiomhole: Senate President Warns “We’ll Use Rules to Remove You” in Standing Rules Row
The Nigerian Senate erupted into chaos on Wednesday after Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Adams Oshiomhole clashed over the interpretation of the chamber’s amended Standing Rules.
The heated exchange lasted over 15 minutes and brought proceedings to a halt.
The tension began while Akpabio was reading the Votes and Proceedings from Tuesday’s sitting. Oshiomhole, APC Edo North, interrupted with a point of order. Akpabio immediately ruled him out of order, referencing the 2023 Standing Rules which forbid points of order at that point in the session.
Oshiomhole wouldn’t back down. To settle the dispute, Akpabio turned to former Chief Whip Orji Uzor Kalu,who confirmed that raising points of order wasn’t allowed during that stage.
Even after warnings from Chief Whip Tahir Monguno that disciplinary action could be taken, Oshiomhole continued. That’s when Akpabio delivered a sharp rebuke:
“We should not just go home, buy forms and come here without knowing the rules.”
He then added a direct threat: If you become unruly, we will use the rules to take you out of the Senate.”
Normalcy returned after Senator Adamu Aliero moved to adopt the Votes and Proceedings, with Minority Leader Abba Moro seconding the motion.
The confrontation isn’t just about procedure. It’s tied to a major rule change the Senate passed on Tuesday. Orders 4 and 5 were amended to bar senators from contesting for presiding and principal offices unless they’ve served at least two consecutive terms, including the immediate past term.
That means only returning members of the current 10th Assembly can now vie for roles like Senate President and Deputy Senate President in 2027.
Akpabio’s warning to Oshiomhole signals a tougher stance on Senate procedure as lawmakers position themselves for 2027. The new two-term rule is reshaping who can lead the Red Chamber — and it’s already causing friction.
Stay updated on 2027 election politics, Senate reforms, and Nigerian legislative battles. Subscribe free for real-time political analysis and breaking news
Lunagisthub
