By Haruna Salami
Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Adams Oshiomhole were involved in a heated confrontation on the Senate floor on Wednesday.
The disagreement started when Oshiomhole tried to raise a point of order just as Akpabio called for the confirmation of the Votes and Proceedings from the previous legislative session.
Akpabio initially ignored the Edo North lawmaker, prompting Oshiomhole to repeatedly shout “point of order” in an attempt to gain recognition.
Efforts by Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno to calm the situation proved unsuccessful, as Oshiomhole continued to interrupt proceedings.
In response, Akpabio issued a warning to the former Edo State governor and referenced the Senate’s rules governing conduct.
“The rules guiding proceedings in the Senate chamber, including its corridors and passages, are clearly established,” Akpabio said.
He explained that the Senate President is authorized to sign warrants, subpoenas, resolutions, and other official documents issued by the Senate, and is also responsible for enforcing compliance with debate rules.
Akpabio further noted that the presiding officer is charged with maintaining order, ruling on constitutional points of order, and exercising a casting vote only in the event of a tie.
He stressed that the Senate President has the authority to interpret the chamber’s rules, adding that lawmakers must be properly guided by them, especially on sensitive issues such as disputed elections.
Reiterating his stance, Akpabio warned that any senator who behaves in a disorderly manner risks being asked to leave the chamber.
“This serves as a final warning,” he said
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