Tension rocks the Senate as Akpabio, Natasha, and Oshiomhole engage in a heated clash over the abortion bill debate.
A heated moment unfolded in the Nigerian Senate on Tuesday as a sharp exchange broke out between Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, and Senator Adams Oshiomhole during deliberations on a proposed abortion-related bill.
The drama began when Senator Natasha, representing Kogi Central, sought recognition to speak, stating, “Mr. Senate President, please may I speak. I’m a woman, and abortion has to do with women.”
Responding, Senate President Akpabio informed the chamber that the bill had been stepped down “in totality.” Despite calling Senator Natasha’s name multiple times without a response, Akpabio later clarified that while the bill was no longer under consideration, she could still make her remarks if she wished.
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However, as Senator Natasha rose to speak, Senator Oshiomhole swiftly interjected, raising a Point of Order.
“Rule of Order, Mr. President. Senator Natasha cannot speak on this issue because the matter has been concluded. Let us follow the rules,” Oshiomhole insisted, citing parliamentary procedure.
The exchange drew attention from lawmakers and observers alike, reflecting the intensity that often surrounds legislative discussions on socially sensitive issues such as abortion.
Though the bill was eventually stepped down, the confrontation underscored the deep procedural and gender-based tensions that continue to shape debates in Nigeria’s upper legislative chamber.