A dramatic verbal clash between Senators Adams Oshiomhole and Ali Ndume disrupted Thursday’s sitting of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs as the panel screened ambassadorial nominee Reno Omokri.
The confrontation, which unfolded in the packed Room 301 of the Senate complex, halted proceedings as both men exchanged sharp words while Omokri sat quietly before the committee.
Trouble began when Oshiomhole issued remarks widely interpreted as a jab at critics questioning some of President Tinubu’s nominees. Ndume objected immediately, insisting the senator was violating committee procedure.
Oshiomhole asked the chairman for protection, raising his voice in irritation, while Ndume fired back, declaring: “The Senate is not a joke!”
Oshiomhole escalated, taking a personal swipe: “When I talk, those who have not been governors should listen.” Ndume retorted that he was a senator long before Oshiomhole “dreamed of becoming one.”
Committee Chairman Senator Abubakar Bello intervened and restored order.
The altercation followed another awkward incident a day earlier when Ekiti nominee Emmanuel Adeyemi failed to name all three senators from his state, prompting consternation among lawmakers.
