Akpabio, Oshiomhole Bury the Hatchet After Public Senate Face-Off

Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North) on Thursday publicly resolved their recent differences during plenary, bringing to an end weeks of visible tension between the two senior lawmakers.

The reconciliation came after Oshiomhole complained that Akpabio had repeatedly failed to recognise him despite raising his hand to invoke a Point of Order.

In a humorous remark that drew laughter from senators, Oshiomhole accused the Senate President of not giving adequate attention to lawmakers who are “vertically challenged,” a playful reference to his height.

Akpabio, however, dismissed the allegation, explaining that he had not intentionally ignored the former Edo State governor but was responding to an intervention by Senator Onawo Ogoshi (APC, Nasarawa South).

He subsequently apologised to Oshiomhole, saying there was no ill intent and affirming their reconciliation.

“Agreement is agreement,” Akpabio said, echoing a popular phrase often used by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, prompting laughter across the chamber.

The exchange marked a thaw in relations between the two lawmakers, whose disagreements have become increasingly public in recent months.

Oshiomhole has emerged as one of the most outspoken voices in the Senate, frequently taking positions at variance with the leadership.

He had questioned the handling of the Senate Public Accounts Committee’s invitation to former NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, and also opposed proposed amendments to the Senate Standing Rules on eligibility for the office of Senate President.

The Edo North senator also recently objected to the nomination of Professor Abayomi Fasina as a non-career ambassador, citing allegations of sexual misconduct.

Although Akpabio and Oshiomhole had exchanged sharp remarks during previous sittings, Thursday’s public apology and handshake signalled a willingness by both men to put their differences behind them and restore cordiality in the Red Chamber.