It Was A Mistake’ — Oshiomhole Sparks Controversy Over Akpabio’s Senate Presidency

Oshiomhole made the statement on Tuesday during an appearance on ARISE Television’s Morning Show.

He argued that the existing Senate Standing Orders do not support Akpabio’s position as Senate President.

Oshiomhole also backed the position of Sen. Adeniyi Adegbonmire (SAN), saying the interpretation of the Senate rules regarding the amendment process was correct and that the matter was not yet resolved.

He noted that Akpabio previously served a four-year term in the Senate, lost his re-election bid, later served as a minister, and has now returned to the Senate to become Senate President again.

According to him, if the requirement for eligibility is eight years of service, Akpabio has not met the condition.

“If you add his first term to his current term, he still has not served eight years. If eight years is the minimum requirement, Sen. Akpabio does not qualify to preside because he has not met it,” he said.

Oshiomhole added that if Akpabio’s emergence was indeed based on a procedural mistake, then it should be corrected. He also argued that certain wording in the Senate rules, including the use of “consecutively,” could affect leadership tenure interpretation.

He warned that such legal interpretations could encourage undemocratic outcomes within legislative systems.

Meanwhile, Oshiomhole also made a light remark during the interview, joking about his frequent exchanges with Arise TV anchor Rufai Oseni.

He said Oseni often challenges him during interviews, adding humorously that their on-air debates are ongoing.