By Kingston Magare 24-7-2025
Senate president Godswill Akpabio and Senate majority leader Opeyemi Bamidele were at daggers drawn Wednesday evening during a closed door session.
Senator Opeyemi had accused Akpabio of autocratic rule in running of the senate affairs as discussions on when the Senate should go on break and when to resume boiled over, The duo hauled abusive words at each other to the amazement of many other members who had seen the two leaders as strong allies.
According to Sahara Reporters both men were ready for a punch up but were prevented from doing so by other members of the Senate.
Senator Ali Ndume set the stage for the argument when he criticised the Senate leadership for failing to hold a prior meeting to unify their position before bringing the matter to the floor. He urged the leadership of the Senate to show greater coordination.
Ndume’s comment ignited long-simmering frustrations, as Senate Leader Bamidele publicly voiced his displeasure with Senate President Akpabio’s leadership style.
“I am frustrated as Senate Leader working under Senate President Akpabio,” Bamidele reportedly said in the heated session.
“He does not call leadership meetings; he doesn’t consult with anyone. He is autocratic. In fact, I am contemplating resigning as Senate Leader.”
Akpabio, visibly angered by Bamidele’s remarks, fired back sharply.
“Senator Opeyemi should sit down! He cannot speak while I am speaking. I am in charge here,” Akpabio reportedly yelled. “I have served as Commissioner, two-term Governor, Senate Minority Leader, and a powerful Minister. I know the Senate rules and leadership more than you.”
Efforts to reach Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, were unsuccessful. His phone line was unreachable, and he was also offline on WhatsApp.