The Nigerian Senate has dismissed claims of a reported altercation between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele during a recent closed-door session.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, described the reports as entirely false and misleading.
“Our attention has been drawn to various media stories alleging a clash between the President of the Senate and the Senate Leader during an executive session,” Adaramodu said. “There is no truth whatsoever in those reports.”
He clarified that what transpired during the session was a standard parliamentary procedure—robust debate and engagement on whether the Senate should proceed on its annual recess.
“These reports fail to understand the long-standing parliamentary traditions and practices,” he explained. “It is routine for lawmakers—regardless of party affiliations—to engage in vigorous debate, ask questions, and express diverse opinions before decisions are made.”
READ ALSO: Senate Adjourns Until September 23, Focus Shifts to Oversight Duties
Adaramodu emphasized that such deliberations, whether held in plenary or in committee rooms, are a hallmark of democratic governance and do not signify internal divisions or leadership disputes.
“Healthy debate is essential to the legislative process. It should not be mistaken for discord,” he added. “The Senate remains united in its commitment to serve the interests of over 230 million Nigerians.”
The Senate spokesperson concluded by urging the public and media to distinguish between parliamentary engagement and conflict, reiterating that the leadership of the Senate remains focused and undivided.