Oshiomhole and Akpabio Clash Over Senate Presidency

Adam Oshiomhole, a former two-term governor of Edo State and the former national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), is in a political battle with Godswill Akpabio, the current Senate President. The conflict intensified after Oshiomhole publicly criticized Akpabio during a podcast in mid-June, accusing him of paranoia and nepotism regarding Senate appointments.

Oshiomhole's remarks suggest that Akpabio is nervous about his presence in the Senate. The tension escalated when Akpabio proposed amendments to the Senate's standing orders, which would require Senate presidents to serve at least two consecutive four-year terms.

This rule change is perceived as a strategic move to secure Akpabio's position, as he does not meet the new criteria due to his previous tenure as Minister of Niger Delta Affairs. Oshiomhole protested the amendment, claiming it was not accurately reflected in the Senate's records.

The ongoing power struggle indicates significant implications for the 11th Senate and the political landscape in Nigeria.