Oshiomhole, Bamidele In Fresh Face-Off As Senate Session Gets Tense

As earlier reported, the Nigerian Senate had on Thursday reversed its earlier amendments to the Standing Orders, a move that reopened contestation for leadership positions in the 11th National Assembly and revived political interest in the race for Senate President in 2027.

The reversal followed a motion sponsored by Bamidele, which removed earlier restrictions that had limited eligibility for top leadership positions in the Senate.

Shortly after the decision, Oshiomhole called for more thorough debate on key legislative matters, faulting the speed at which the amendment had been passed earlier in the week.

His remarks triggered an immediate response from Bamidele, who raised a point of order, insisting that senators were all present during the earlier proceedings and fully aware of what transpired.

Bamidele maintained that the chamber should not be distracted by what he described as avoidable theatrics, urging lawmakers to channel concerns through proper legislative procedures rather than public disruptions.

He further stated that Senate leadership would not permit recurring “drama” to overshadow its proceedings or damage the image of the institution.

Citing Senate rules, Bamidele explained that any attempt to revisit already concluded matters must be done through a formal motion for rescission, rather than informal objections on the floor.

He advised Oshiomhole to follow due process if he had reservations about any decision, stressing that proper procedure strengthens legislative order.

The Senate Leader also warned that repeated disruptions could undermine the dignity of the upper chamber, adding that discipline and decorum must be maintained at all times.

The Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, who presided over the session, upheld the point of order raised by Bamidele, effectively bringing the exchange to a close.