Senate amends rules, requires 8 years for presiding positions
Senate changed rules requiring senators to serve at least eight years before contesting positions of Senate President and Deputy Senate President, replacing previous four-year requirement. The amendment, passed Tuesday, has drawn criticism from senators including Edo North's Adams Oshiomhole who claims it violates constitutional procedure and serves selfish interests.
Mr. Oshiomhole, a former governor, argues the amendment creates leadership like traditional rulership and should have required two-thirds majority rather than voice vote. He points out current Senate President Akpabio hasn't served eight years, suggesting he should step down if these rules are enforced.
Bauchi Central Senator Abdul Ningi calls the amendment self-serving, noting similar concerns during Electoral Act amendments when party supremacy overruled objections. Both senators say the change narrows future leadership to current senators, potentially excluding qualified aspirants.
Does this rule change strengthen Senate leadership quality or create an unbreakable power structure for current senators?