Tension erupted in the Senate as Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Adams Oshiomhole engaged in a heated confrontation over newly amended leadership eligibility rules in the upper chamber.
The disagreement reportedly began during plenary when Oshiomhole attempted to raise a point of order while Akpabio was confirming votes and proceedings relating to recent amendments to the Senate Standing Orders.
Akpabio, however, declined to recognise the Edo North senator, insisting that Senate procedures did not permit a point of order at that stage of proceedings. The development led to a brief disruption in the chamber.
The Senate President later cautioned Oshiomhole against disorderly conduct and warned lawmakers to familiarise themselves with the chamber’s rules and procedures.
The clash followed the Senate’s amendment of its standing rules, which introduced stricter eligibility requirements for senators seeking presiding and principal offices in the 11th National Assembly.
Under the amended provisions, only senators who have served at least two consecutive terms immediately before nomination can contest for positions such as Senate President and Deputy Senate President.
The new rule is believed to have generated controversy within the Senate, as it effectively disqualifies some first-term lawmakers and incoming politicians expected to seek leadership positions in 2027.
