Bamidele tears into Akpabio, “in fact, I am contemplating resigning as Senate Leader”
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele engaged in a shouting match with Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Wednesday evening that nearly degenerated into a physical punch up, inside sources have disclosed.
Tension reported erupted during an executive session convened to deliberate on whether to adjourn legislative sitting this week or next week for the usual two-month annual recess of the Senate.
SaharaReporters quoted sources as disclosing that disagreements among the leadership over the adjournment plan led to visible cracks in the top hierarchy.
Senator Ali Ndume was said to have criticised the Senate leadership for failing to hold a prior meeting to unify their position before bringing the matter to the floor.
He was quoted as saying that was not how things should be done, and urged the leadership to show coordination.
Ndume’s comment ignited long-simmering frustrations, as Bamidele voiced his displeasure with 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 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.”
As tempers flared, it was learnt, both men appeared ready to confront each other physically but other Senators quickly intervened to de-escalate the situation and restore order.
Reports of a similar altercation between Akpabio and Bamidele surfaced in November 2024 but were dismissed as fake news.
Bamidele’s office flagged the reports first circulated on X by journalist Jackson Ude as fake news aimed at tarnishing the image of the Senate leadership.
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