By Abbanobi -Eku Onyeka
The Senate plenary turned rowdy on Tuesday after Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Adams Oshiomhole engaged in a heated exchange during proceedings.
The confrontation began when Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, attempted to raise a point of order while Akpabio was calling for the confirmation of the Votes and Proceedings of the previous legislative day.
Akpabio proceeded without acknowledging the senator, prompting Oshiomhole to repeatedly interrupt by shouting “point of order” from his seat.
Efforts by Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno to restore calm proved unsuccessful as Oshiomhole continued to disrupt the session.
Akpabio then issued a formal warning to the former Edo governor, citing provisions of the Senate rules that govern conduct within the chamber and its corridors.
“The rules and laws governing the Senate Chamber, including its corridors and passages, are clearly defined,” Akpabio stated during the exchange.
He reminded lawmakers that the Senate President is empowered to sign warrants, subpoenas, resolutions, and other official documents issued by order of the Senate, and is also responsible for enforcing debate rules.
“The Senate President is tasked with maintaining order during debates and giving rulings on points of constitutional order when they are raised,” Akpabio added, noting that he also holds a casting vote in the event of a tie but does not vote otherwise.
“Most importantly, he has the authority to interpret the rules. This is clearly stated,” he said, stressing that members must understand Senate procedures before raising contentious issues.
Akpabio concluded with a direct warning to Oshiomhole, stating that any member who becomes unruly would be asked to leave the chamber, and described it as a final caution.
