Reactions have continued to trail the tension that erupted in the Senate on Wednesday after Senate President Godswill Akpabio threatened to order Senator Adams Oshiomhole out of the chamber over what he described as unruly conduct during plenary. While some social media users faulted Oshiomhole for allegedly violating Senate rules,……
Reactions have continued to trail the tension that erupted in the Senate on Wednesday after Senate President Godswill Akpabio threatened to order Senator Adams Oshiomhole out of the chamber over what he described as unruly conduct during plenary.
While some social media users faulted Oshiomhole for allegedly violating Senate rules, others accused him of speaking out only because legislative decisions were no longer favouring him.
However, another group of social media users criticised Akpabio for the manner in which he addressed a fellow senator during the session.
The heated exchange erupted while lawmakers were considering the adoption of the Votes and Proceedings of the previous legislative sitting.
Drama started after Oshiomhole repeatedly shouted “point of order” in an attempt to gain recognition from the Senate President, who continued with proceedings without acknowledging him.
Efforts by Senate Chief Whip, Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, to calm the situation reportedly failed as the former Edo State governor persisted in interrupting the session.
READ ALSO: Akpabio, Oshiomhole Clash as Senate Tightens Rules Ahead of 2027 Leadership Race
Akpabio subsequently invoked provisions of the Senate Standing Orders 2023 as amended, warning senators against disregarding parliamentary rules.
“We should not just go home, buy forms and come here without knowing the rules,” Akpabio said during the tense session.
“The rules and laws governing the Senate Chamber, including its corridors and passages, are clearly defined.
“The Senate President is empowered to sign warrants, subpoenas, resolutions, and other official documents issued by order of the Senate.
“He is also responsible for ensuring adherence to the rules of debate.”
The Senate President further stressed that his office holds constitutional powers to maintain order and interpret parliamentary procedures during debates.
“Let me be clear, Senator Oshiomhole, many people may not have seen this order, which is why I am reading it out,” he said.
“The Senate President is tasked with maintaining order during debates and giving rulings on points of constitutional order when they are raised.
“He also has a casting vote in the event of a tie, but does not vote in any other circumstance.
“Most importantly, he has the authority to interpret the rules—this is clearly stated.”
Akpabio also cautioned lawmakers against disregarding parliamentary procedure, especially during sensitive legislative matters.
“So, Senator, we should not come into this chamber, especially on matters as serious as contested elections, without a proper understanding of the rules,” he added.
The Senate President then issued what he described as a final warning to the Edo North senator.
“Let me emphasise once again, Senator Oshiomhole, if any member becomes unruly in the Senate, such a member will be asked to leave. This is the final warning.”
Despite repeated interventions, Oshiomhole reportedly continued his protest, prompting Akpabio to call on former Senate Chief Whip, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, to explain the chamber’s rules to him.
Kalu’s intervention, however, failed to restore calm as the disagreement persisted on the Senate floor.
Chief Whip Monguno later warned that stronger disciplinary measures could be invoked if the interruptions continued, urging Oshiomhole to conduct himself in line with Senate rules.
Soon after the video reports surfaced, Nigerians took to social media platforms to express mixed opinions over the drama.
An X user @GodsgreatG, questions the impacts of activists in politics, he said: “This man is proof that activists often don’t make good politicians, which is exactly why I’m skeptical about Sowore.
“We all remember when Adams Oshiomhole was the NLC president and how he advocated for the common man—until he entered politics. People sang his praises and hoped he would be different.
“He’s only being outspoken now because the law affects him; otherwise, he wouldn’t care.”
Another user identified as @Cyberhijabitech, wrote: “When lawmakers begin to fight over rules instead of policies that impact citizens, Nigerians start questioning whose interests truly come first.”
Also commenting, @KhalebIO said: “This has always been Oshiomhole. His strength and energy manifests when things go against his personal interest. Even as Labour leader, he made people believe he fought for the masses. These people only fight back when their interests are threatened.”
Reacting from what seemed like a different angle, @Keteket12858516 wrote: “I would have love to see you guys using the rules to take him out of the senate.”
@EdorheJones, also added: “He just wants to seat Akpabio is sitting. So that when Tinubu leaves in 2031 he can contest for presidency. It’s all theatrics.”
Meanwhile, @musiliyu_kazeem questioned why laws are made. He wrote: “The laws are no longer made for the country and the masses but now to protect their personal interests.”
@Mkay_vic97, also added, saying: “Rules are rules. I don’t know why a Senator can’t respect the same rules made by him.”
