Chaos Erupts in Senate as Oshiomhole, Ndume Clash Over Reno Omokri’s Ambassadorial Screening

The Senate erupted into chaos on Tuesday during the screening of ambassadorial nominee Reno Omokri, following a heated confrontation between Senator Adams Oshiomhole and Senator Ali Ndume.

The tension began after a motion was moved recommending that Omokri and other nominees simply “take a bow and leave.” Senator Ndume insisted that the motion must be formally seconded before any further comments could be made. However, Senator Oshiomhole objected, demanding the opportunity to speak before the motion was seconded. He argued that Omokri’s nomination required scrutiny due to what he described as “raging issues in the public domain.”

As Oshiomhole attempted to make his case, Ndume repeatedly interrupted, citing Senate rules. The disagreement quickly escalated, with lawmakers shouting across the chamber and trading harsh words. The presiding officer was eventually forced to call for order as the exchange deteriorated into open insults.

Calm was restored after Senator Joel Onowakpo Thomas seconded the pending motion, effectively shutting down further debate. Omokri was not asked any questions, and the Senate upheld the directive for all nominees to take a bow and leave.

The dramatic session came after President Bola Tinubu submitted a 32-man ambassadorial nominees’ list to the Senate on November 29. The list features 15 career and 17 non-career diplomats, including several high-profile political figures. It has since drawn criticism from various quarters, particularly over the inclusion of former officeholders.

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