From David Onuoja, Abuja
There was a palpable tension earlier at the Senate today Thursday as Senator Adams Oshiomhole of (APC, Edo North) and Mohammed Ali Ndume (APC, Borno South), engaged in a heated confrontation over the Ambassadorial clearance of the former presidential aide on Social Media, Reno Omokri.
The exchange occurred during the second day of the Senate’s screening as President Bola Tinubu brought 65 Ambassadorial Nominees, which were submitted last week.
Though, Omokri, was seated watching quietly during the heated drama as the two Senators who are both known for their usual vocal members, traded sharp words in a procedural and political showdown.
This show of argument started immediately after Oshiomhole began to speak on Omokri’s nomination, insisting that he should be allowed to express his views.
According to Oshiomhole, “Look, I cannot be intimidated by people who go here and there. After all, we see people on television questioning this list.
“In fact, I was once a Governor of a State and member of national executive council, not like those who have not tasted that. I know what others may not know”, Oshiomhole Bragg.
On the part of Mohammed Ali Ndume, won several times interrupted Adams Oshiomhole emphasising that Oshiomhole must follow strict and adherence to the Senate procedure.
His word: “The procedure is that if there is a motion on the ground, it should be seconded. If it is not seconded, it’s dead,” Ndume said.
Unyielding, Oshiomhole continues by raising his voice, appealing to the Committee Chairman, Senator Abubakar Bello (APC, Niger North), to protect his right of speaking.
“Just allow me to continue (with what I am saying). Mr Chairman, you have allowed me. Please protect me”, he said.
The Chairman however, struggled to restore order, by instructing Oshiomhole to conclude or finish his address.
Oshiomhole continues: “all right! Mr Chairman, I think I need to speak on this in the public interest, with particular reference to the nomination of Reno. We cannot pretend we have not heard stories,” Oshiomhole added.
On this, Ndume retorted again sharply: “There is no such petition before us. The Senate is not a joke. We can’t abide with what social media are saying!”
Despite the earlier mishap, Adeyemi’s nomination continues alongside those of Erelu Angela Adebayo and Olumilua Oluwayemika, also from Ekiti State.
After all the bruhaha, the Chairman throws the question of either Yeah or nee, if the Ambassadorial Nominees should take a bow and go and yeah had it. The Chairman therefore asked both Reno Omokri among others to take a bow and go.
The ongoing ambassadorial screening highlights the political sensitivities and procedural rigor of the Senate, as lawmakers weigh both competence and loyalty in confirming President Tinubu’s diplomatic appointments.
