The Nigerian Senate was thrown into turmoil on Wednesday evening when a closed-door session erupted into a heated altercation between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, nearly resulting in a physical confrontation.
The clash occurred during an executive session convened to decide whether to adjourn the current legislative sitting this week or next, ahead of the Senate’s traditional two-month recess. According to sources sharp disagreements over the timing of the adjournment exposed deep divisions within the chamber’s leadership.
Senator Ali Ndume reportedly sparked the tension by criticising the Senate leadership for failing to convene a pre-session meeting to align their positions. He noted that such disorganisation was unacceptable and urged the leadership to act with greater unity and coordination.
Ndume’s remarks appeared to trigger underlying tensions, prompting Senate Leader Bamidele to openly criticise Akpabio’s leadership style — a move that escalated into a shouting match between the two top lawmakers.
“I am frustrated as Senate Leader working under Senate President Akpabio,” Bamidele reportedly said in the heated session. “He does not call leadership meetings, he doesn’t consult with anyone. He is autocratic. In fact, I am contemplating resigning as Senate Leader.”
Akpabio, visibly angered by Bamidele’s remarks, fired back sharply.
“Senator Opeyemi should sit down! He cannot speak while I am speaking. I am in charge here,” Akpabio reportedly yelled. “I have served as Commissioner, two-term Governor, Senate Minority Leader, and a powerful Minister. I know the Senate rules and leadership more than you.”
It was gathered that as tensions rose, both men seemed on the verge of a physical confrontation before other senators swiftly stepped in to calm the situation and restore order.