Oshiomhole, Akpabio in senate showdown over new leadership rules

A heated confrontation erupted in the Senate on Wednesday as Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Adams Oshiomhole clashed over newly amended rules seen to block some lawmakers from contesting top leadership positions.

The tension comes barely 24 hours after the Senate revised its standing orders to limit eligibility for presiding and principal offices to lawmakers who have completed at least two consecutive terms – effectively sidelining first-term senators like Oshiomhole from vying for such roles.

The dispute unfolded during plenary when Oshiomhole attempted to raise a point of order as proceedings commenced for the adoption of the previous day’s votes. Akpabio declined to recognise him, triggering repeated interruptions from the Edo North lawmaker, who continued shouting “point of order” despite having his microphone switched off.

Attempts by Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno to restore order were unsuccessful, as Oshiomhole refused to yield the floor.

“I am invoking the powers of my office for you to return to your seat. Be guided,” Monguno said, but the directive was ignored.

Akpabio later stepped in, warning Oshiomhole against breaching Senate rules and reiterating the authority of the presiding officer to maintain order and regulate debate within the chamber.

He stressed that the Senate President is empowered to interpret rules, rule on procedural issues, and ensure discipline during proceedings, adding that unruly conduct could attract sanctions, including removal from the chamber.

The session grew more tense when Senator Patrick Ndubueze raised an objection, alleging that part of Tuesday’s votes and proceedings contained a resolution that was neither debated nor formally adopted. Akpabio dismissed the claim and proceeded to call for a voice vote.

Despite noticeable dissent from some lawmakers, the Senate President ruled in favour of the “ayes,” allowing the proceedings to stand.

The clash follows a closed-door session held a day earlier, during which senators approved amendments requiring a minimum of eight years of uninterrupted service for anyone seeking positions such as Senate President or Deputy Senate President.

The development has sparked fresh political calculations within the National Assembly, particularly amid speculation that prominent figures like Hope Uzodimma, Ifeanyi Okowa, and Ovie Omo-Agege may be positioning for a return to the Senate ahead of the 2027 leadership race.

Analysts say the new rules could significantly reshape the contest for Senate leadership, even as concerns mount over their implications for inclusiveness and internal democracy within the legislative chamber.