The revised rules effectively bar Oshiomhole, who is serving his first term in the Senate, from contesting for any presiding office in the current National Assembly.
The disagreement began during plenary when Oshiomhole attempted to raise a point of order as Akpabio called for the adoption of the Votes and Proceedings from the previous legislative sitting.
Despite repeatedly seeking recognition, the Edo North senator was ignored by the Senate President. Oshiomhole continued shouting “point of order” even after his microphone was muted, creating tension in the chamber.
Efforts by Senate Chief Whip, Mohammed Monguno, to restore calm proved unsuccessful as Oshiomhole persisted in interrupting proceedings.
“I am now invoking the powers conferred on me as the chief whip of the senate fr you to return to your seat. Be guided,” Monguno said.
The former Edo State governor, however, remained defiant and continued to raise his voice.
In response, Akpabio reminded lawmakers of the rules governing conduct within the Senate and issued a stern warning to Oshiomhole.
“The rules and laws governing the Senate Chamber, including its corridors and passages, are clearly defined,” Akpabio said.
“The senate president is empowered to sign warrants, subpoenas, resolutions, and other official documents issued by order of the Senate.
“He is also responsible for ensuring adherence to the rules of debate. Let me be clear, Senator Oshiomhole — many people may not have seen this order, which is why I am reading it out.
“The senate president is tasked with maintaining order during debates and giving rulings on points of constitutional order when they are raised.
“He also has a casting vote in the event of a tie, but does not vote in any other circumstance.
“Most importantly, he has the authority to interpret the rules—this is clearly stated.
“So, senator, we should not come into this chamber, especially on matters as serious as contested elections, without a proper understanding of the rules.
“Let me emphasize once again, Senator Oshiomhole, if any member becomes unruly in the senate, such a member will be asked to leave. This is the final warning.”
The debate over the Senate records continued when Senator Patrick Ndubueze raised concerns about what he described as an omission in Tuesday’s Votes and Proceedings.
Ndubueze argued that one of the resolutions listed in the document had neither been debated nor adopted by the Senate. However, Akpabio overruled the objection and proceeded with the business of the day.
The Senate President subsequently put the Votes and Proceedings to a voice vote and declared the “ayes” victorious despite loud objections from senators who responded with “nays”.
The confrontation came a day after senators approved amendments to the Senate Standing Orders following a closed-door session that lasted nearly three hours.