Akpabio-Oshiomhole Clash Halts Senate Plenary

Senate President Godswill Akpabio clashed with Senator Adams Oshiomhole on Wednesday during a plenary session of Nigeria's Senate, halting proceedings for about 10 to 15 minutes after Oshiomhole repeatedly attempted to raise a point of order while Akpabio reviewed the votes and proceedings from the previous day's sitting.

The confrontation unfolded as Akpabio moved to confirm the parliamentary record, which under the Senate Standing Orders 2023, as amended, cannot be interrupted by points of order. Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, insisted on speaking despite Akpabio declining to recognize him and having his microphone muted. Akpabio called on former Chief Whip Orji Uzor Kalu, who confirmed that such interventions were not permitted at that stage. Senate Chief Whip Tahir Monguno then intervened, directing Oshiomhole to return to his seat and warning of disciplinary action. "I am now invoking the powers conferred on me as the chief whip of the Senate for you to return to your seat. Be guided," Monguno said.

Akpabio reinforced the admonitions, urging senators to study the rules. "We should not just go home, buy forms and come here without knowing the rules," he stated. He...