Akpabio and Oshiomhole Clash Over Senate Leadership Rules

A clash occurred in the Nigerian Senate between Godswill Akpabio, the Senate President, and Adams Oshiomhole during a plenary session regarding new leadership rules. Oshiomhole attempted to raise a point of order concerning Akpabio's motion to confirm a vote on previous parliamentary records.

Akpabio declined to recognize Oshiomhole, prompting repeated shouts from the Edo North lawmaker, even as his microphone was muted. Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno attempted to restore order but was unsuccessful.

Oshiomhole continued to disrupt proceedings, invoking the power of the Chief Whip, while Akpabio issued a stern warning about decorum in the Senate. The exchange halted proceedings for ten minutes.

Ultimately, Akpabio urged senators to familiarize themselves with the rules. The matter was put to a voice vote, which ruled in favor of the amendment, despite audible resistance from opposing lawmakers.

The new rules stipulate that candidates for the presidential office must have served at least two consecutive terms.