Senate Rejects Claims of Presidential Interference in Orders

The Nigerian Senate has dismissed reports alleging presidential interference in the recent adjustments to its Standing Orders, describing these claims as false and an attempt to mislead the public. Jackson Udom, the special assistant to the Senate President on media, issued a statement on Thursday urging Nigerians to disregard the allegations.

Adeniyi Adegbomir, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, and Legal Matters, clarified that the amendments were rescinded to align with constitutional requirements regarding membership oaths. The Senate reverted to previous practices, emphasizing that the adjustments were purely procedural and did not alter eligibility for leadership positions.

The Senate's order paper from Thursday indicated that the earlier amendments created inconsistencies with Section 52 of the 1999 Constitution. The chamber reaffirmed that its Standing Orders remain fully consistent with constitutional provisions and parliamentary conventions.