The disagreement, which lasted for over 15 minutes, began as Akpabio commenced the reading of the Votes and Proceedings from Tuesday’s sitting. Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North) raised a point of order, prompting the Senate President to remind him that, under the Senate Standing Orders 2023, points of order are typically not entertained during that stage of proceedings.
Despite the clarification, Oshiomhole persisted, leading Akpabio to invite former Chief Whip, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, to weigh in. Kalu supported the Senate President’s position, reiterating that the rules did not permit interruptions at that point.
The situation escalated further when Senate Chief Whip, Senator Tahir Monguno, issued a warning to Oshiomhole, cautioning that disciplinary powers could be invoked if he continued to disrupt proceedings.
Undeterred, Oshiomhole insisted on his position, referencing Order 20 of the rule book and urging lawmakers to familiarize themselves with the Senate’s procedures. In response, Akpabio delivered a stern rebuke, stating, “We should not just go home, buy forms and come here without knowing the rules.”
He further warned the Edo North senator against continued defiance. “Oshiomhole, if you become unruly, we will use the rules to take you out of the Senate,” Akpabio said.
Order was eventually restored as the Senate President resumed the reading and concluded the session. The Votes and Proceedings were subsequently adopted following a motion moved by Senator Adamu Aliero and seconded by Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro.
Observers believe Oshiomhole’s outburst may be linked to developments from Tuesday’s plenary, where the Senate amended its Standing Orders. The changes, seen as politically significant ahead of the 2027 general elections, restrict eligibility for the office of Senate President to lawmakers from the 9th and 10th National Assemblies—effectively excluding incoming senators of the 11th Assembly from contesting the position.
