A heated confrontation broke out on Thursday between Senators Adams Oshiomhole and Ali Ndume during the Senate’s screening of ambassadorial nominee, Reno Omokri.
The disagreement erupted as both lawmakers expressed sharply different views on Omokri’s suitability for the diplomatic role.
In a video from the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs session, Oshiomhole and Ndume engaged in a brief shouting match. Oshiomhole strongly backed Omokri’s nomination, describing the former presidential aide as a patriotic Nigerian who consistently defends the country.
Ndume, however, insisted that proper procedures must be followed before any endorsement is made.
Trouble started when Ndume attempted to stop Oshiomhole from speaking, prompting Oshiomhole to fire back:
“Until you are called, you cannot shut me down.” He added that he had the chairman’s permission to speak, saying:
“You’re not the Chairman and cannot exercise powers you don’t have.”
Oshiomhole further argued that Omokri has demonstrated fairness and integrity, noting that the nominee is willing to admit when he is wrong and acts in the nation’s interest.
“For me, he is a pragmatist. This young man has shown that when he sees compelling evidence, he is not ashamed to adjust his position. From what I’ve seen, he is working and deserves the support of everyone who wants progressive governance,” Oshiomhole said.
He concluded by stressing his experience as a former governor, stating:
“When I speak, those who are not governors should listen.”
The screening session continued after the exchange, with the committee expected to submit its report to the Senate.
