Abuja, Nigeria: Nigeria‘s Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and the Senator representing the Edo North Senatorial District, Adams Oshiomhole, clashed during a plenary session of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on Wednesday, May 6, 2026.
Okay News reports that Oshiomhole raised a point of order while Akpabio read the Votes and Proceedings of the previous sitting.
The Senate President stated that such interventions are not permitted at that stage under the Senate Standing Orders 2023. When Oshiomhole persisted, Akpabio asked former Chief Whip, Senator Orji Kalu, to clarify the procedural rule. Kalu confirmed that points of order cannot be raised during the consideration of Votes and Proceedings.
Oshiomhole continued his objection following the explanation. The Senate Whip, Senator Tahir Monguno, cautioned him against disruption and stated that disciplinary measures could be invoked. Akpabio then directed lawmakers to pages 194 and 195 of the document.
“We should not just go home, buy forms and come here without knowing the rules,” Akpabio said. He issued a warning regarding further conduct. “Oshiomhole, if you become unruly, we will use the rules to take you out of the Senate,” Akpabio said.
The session proceeded with Senator Adamu Aliero moving to adopt the Votes and Proceedings, seconded by Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro. The confrontation followed an amendment to the chamber’s standing rules that requires senators to have served at least two consecutive terms immediately preceding nomination to be eligible for presiding offices in the 11th Senate, a requirement that disqualifies Oshiomhole from vying for a presiding office.
