There was a heated confrontation in the Senate on Thursday as Senators Adams Oshiomhole and Ali Ndume openly disagreed during the screening of Reno Omokri, a former presidential aide nominated for an ambassadorial position by President Bola Tinubu.
The argument, which briefly disrupted the session of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, highlighted growing tensions over some of the recent diplomatic nominations.
In a video from the screening session, Oshiomhole and Ndume were seen engaging in a loud verbal exchange, with both lawmakers insisting on their right to speak. The disagreement centred on Omokri’s eligibility and the proper procedures for evaluating nominees for such sensitive positions.
Senator Oshiomhole, a former governor of Edo State and former national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), spoke strongly in favour of Omokri’s nomination.
He praised Omokri for what he described as consistent defence of Nigeria, especially in international discussions where the country has often been criticised.
Oshiomhole said Omokri had repeatedly demonstrated that he is a “good Nigerian” who puts the interest of the country first. According to him, the nominee has shown maturity and fairness by acknowledging when he is wrong and by supporting national unity.
“This young man has shown that when he sees compelling evidence in the interest of the Nigerian nation, he will not be ashamed to say he was wrong,” Oshiomhole said.
He added that Omokri’s willingness to correct himself publicly was a rare quality needed in diplomacy. He stressed that Omokri should be supported by “all those who want progressive governance.”
Oshiomhole also reminded colleagues that the President retains the constitutional power to make ambassadorial nominations. He said that unless there is strong evidence against a nominee, the Senate should not unnecessarily oppose the President’s choices.
Senator Ali Ndume, however, held a different view.
Ndume, who is known for his strong positions on national security and legislative procedure,
He insisted that the committee must follow the guidelines for screening ambassadorial nominees and that no senator should impose their opinion on the process.
When Oshiomhole attempted to make his remarks, Ndume interrupted, saying he had not been given the floor to speak. This triggered the confrontation.
In response, Oshiomhole fired back: “Until you are called, you cannot shut me down.”
He added, “I have the authority of the chairman. You’re not the chairman and cannot exercise the power you don’t have.”
The exchange quickly escalated, prompting both men to raise their voices. The chairman of the committee was forced to intervene to restore order.
During the confrontation, Oshiomhole also appeared to criticise unnamed lawmakers who, according to him, had earlier questioned the ambassadorial list on television.
“We cannot pretend we have not heard stories,” he said, referring to public debates over the suitability of some nominees.
“I cannot be intimidated by people who go here and there.”
He also made a controversial remark about political hierarchy, saying:
“I proudly said I was a governor, which is the head of a sub-national government, so when I speak, those who are not governors should listen.”
His comments drew mixed reactions, with some senators shaking their heads in disapproval while others signalled support.
Reno Omokri, a well-known social media personality and critic of the APC administration before 2023, served as an aide to former President Goodluck Jonathan.
His nomination has sparked public interest because of his long history of political commentary, especially his criticisms of policies under former President Muhammadu Buhari.
However, in recent years, Omokri has taken positions that many describe as supportive of Nigeria’s image abroad. This includes appearances on international media platforms where he countered negative narratives about the country.
Supporters say Omokri has demonstrated patriotism and has the communication skills needed to represent Nigeria effectively overseas.
Critics, however, believe his political activism and outspoken style may not be suitable for diplomatic service, which requires restraint and neutrality.
Ambassadorial positions remain highly sensitive because they involve representing Nigeria’s interests in foreign countries.
The Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs traditionally takes its screening responsibilities very seriously, especially regarding nominees’ character, knowledge of foreign policy, and diplomatic comportment.
In the past, disagreements have occurred during screenings, but Thursday’s clash between Oshiomhole and Ndume stood out because both senators are senior lawmakers and influential figures in national politics.
Their heated argument also reflects growing political tension in the Senate, as members continue to debate the role of the legislature in checking executive appointments while maintaining cooperation with the Presidency.
Despite the drama, the screening exercise continued after the situation was brought under control.
The committee is expected to submit its report to the full Senate, which will then vote on whether to confirm or reject Omokri and other nominees.
The confrontation between Oshiomhole and Ndume highlights deeper political and personal differences within the Senate, but it also shows how seriously lawmakers take appointments that affect national foreign policy.