Rowdy situation in Senate over screening of Reno Omokri as ambassador

There was a rowdy session in the Senate on Thursday following the screening of an ambassadorial nominee, Reno Omokri.

The Senate’s screening session descended into a heated confrontation as two lawmakers exchanged harsh words over Omokri’s consideration.

Tension broke out when a motion had already been placed on the floor recommending that Omokri and others be asked to take a bow and leave.

Senator Ali Ndume insisted that the motion must be seconded before any comments could be entertained.

However, Senator Adams Oshiomhole strongly objected, insisting he be allowed to speak before the motion was seconded. He argued that Omokri’s nomination could not be glossed over, citing what he described as ‘raging issues in the public domain’.

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“I think I need to speak on this in the public interest because we cannot pretend we have not heard the stories,” attempting to make his case.

But Ndume repeatedly interrupted, insisting the Senate’s rules required that the pending motion be seconded before any debate could proceed.

As both lawmakers insisted on their positions, the chamber briefly descended into chaos, with lawmakers trading harsh words and shouting across the aisle.

At one point, the exchange deteriorated into open insults, forcing the presiding officer to call for order.

When calm was finally restored, Reno Omokri was not asked any question as Senator Joel Onowakpo Thomas seconded the initial motion, effectively ending the dispute.

The chamber then upheld the motion for the nominees, including Reno Omokri, to take a bow and leave.