By Our Correspondent

National News – A heated confrontation erupted in Nigeria’s Senate on Wednesday as Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Edo North lawmaker Adams Oshiomhole clashed over newly tightened leadership rules.

The disagreement, which lasted about 10 minutes, disrupted plenary proceedings at the National Assembly in Abuja.

The clash began when Akpabio started reading the Votes and Proceedings from the previous sitting.

Oshiomhole raised a point of order, but Akpabio ruled him out, citing the Senate Standing Orders 2023 (as amended), which prohibit interruptions at that stage.

Despite the ruling, Oshiomhole persisted, prompting Akpabio to seek clarification from former Chief Whip Orji Uzor Kalu, who confirmed the rule.

Senate Whip Tahir Monguno then warned Oshiomhole against further disruption, cautioning that disciplinary action could follow.

Akpabio also issued a stern warning, stating that any unruly conduct could lead to removal from the chamber.

The session resumed after order was restored, with the Senate adopting the Votes and Proceedings following a motion moved by Adamu Aliero and seconded by Minority Leader Abba Moro.

The dispute is linked to a recent amendment to Senate rules, introduced after a closed-door session.

The revised Orders 4 and 5 now require senators to have served at least two consecutive terms to qualify for presiding or principal offices.

The rules also enforce a ranking system prioritising former Senate leaders and returning lawmakers.

These changes effectively disqualify first-term senators, including Oshiomhole, from contesting top leadership positions.

Analysts say the amendment aims to strengthen institutional experience but has sparked concerns about inclusiveness and fairness within the chamber.