The resumption of the Senate to plenary on Tuesday was marred by a rowdy session as senators engaged in a heated altercation over seat allocations in the newly renovated chamber.
The plenary commenced around 11 am with the Senate President, GodsWill Akpabio, reading out announcements, including the recognition of lawmakers who celebrated birthdays during the break. However, tensions escalated when Senator Sahabi Yau (APC, Zamfara North) raised his voice at Senate leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central), who responded by pointing a stern warning finger at Yau.
Subsequently, Senator Danjuma Goje (APC, Gombe Central) joined Yau in confronting Bamidele and Sunday Karimi (APC, Kogi West), the chairman of Senate Services responsible for seating arrangements.
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The altercation reportedly stemmed from dissatisfaction with the seating arrangements. Some ranking senators expressed displeasure over their seating positions, particularly those allocated seats in the front row on the far right side of the aisle.
Despite attempts by the Senate President to calm the situation and encourage dialogue, Yau refused to comply. The rowdy session persisted for approximately 20 minutes before the Senate President proceeded with his welcome-back speech.
Following the speech, the Senate leader proposed that the Senate transition into a closed-door session. Subsequently, at about 12:05 pm, the Senate convened an executive session.
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The Senate had adjourned plenary on March 20 until April 16 but postponed resumption twice to facilitate the completion of the chamber’s renovation, which had been ongoing since 2022.
The altercation underscores underlying tensions within the Senate, potentially signaling broader issues beyond seat arrangements Grassroots Parrot gathered.