A heated confrontation broke out on Wednesday between Godswill Akpabio and Adams Oshiomhole, barely a day after the Senate amended its standing rules to limit top leadership positions to lawmakers with at least two consecutive terms in office.

The revised rule effectively bars Oshiomhole from contesting for a presiding position in the 11th Senate.

The disagreement began when Oshiomhole attempted to raise a point of order as Akpabio called for confirmation of the previous day’s votes and proceedings. Akpabio ignored the intervention, prompting the Edo North senator to repeatedly shout “point of order,” even after his microphone was switched off.

Attempts by Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno to restore order failed as Oshiomhole continued interrupting proceedings.

“I am now invoking the powers conferred on me as the chief whip of the senate for you to return to your seat. Be guided,” Monguno said.

Akpabio later warned Oshiomhole, citing Senate rules governing conduct within the chamber and emphasizing the authority of the Senate President to maintain order and interpret parliamentary procedures.

“The senate president is tasked with maintaining order during debates and giving rulings on points of constitutional order when they are raised,” Akpabio stated.

He further cautioned that any senator found acting unruly could be asked to leave the chamber, describing his remarks to Oshiomhole as a “final warning.”

During the session, Patrick Ndubueze also questioned the accuracy of Tuesday’s votes and proceedings, alleging that one of the resolutions recorded had neither been debated nor formally adopted.

Akpabio dismissed the objection and proceeded with a voice vote, ultimately ruling in favour of the “ayes” despite loud opposition from the “nays.”

The Senate had amended its standing orders on Tuesday after a lengthy closed-door session. Under the new rules, only senators who have completed