A brief drama played out in the Senate on Tuesday after Senate President Godswill Akpabio halted plenary to hold a private discussion with a select group of lawmakers — a move that drew stiff objections from Senator Danjuma Goje (APC–Gombe Central).
Akpabio entered the chamber around 12:10 p.m., taking over from Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who had already commenced proceedings. Moments after assuming control, the Senate President beckoned the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, for a quiet consultation at his seat.
Within minutes, several senators — including Asuquo Ekpenyong (Cross River South), Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central), Jimoh Ibrahim (Ondo South), Titus Zam (Benue North-West) and Barau Jibrin — joined the huddle.
The impromptu meeting stretched for more than 40 minutes, effectively suspending the day’s business. With plenary stalled, many senators drifted into small groups, engaging in side conversations as the chamber became increasingly noisy and disorderly.
Uncomfortable with the prolonged interruption, Goje rose on a point of order, citing Order 55 of the Senate Standing Rules, which bars disruptions during active proceedings. He insisted that such consultations should occur outside the chamber.
“Interaction is not allowed. What is happening now is unparliamentary,” Goje said. “You should have taken this meeting outside. Everything is at a standstill; this is not our business. We should go on recess; when we are ready, we can return and meet you.”
Responding, Akpabio explained that he had invited the lawmakers for a brief consultation regarding an urgent assignment scheduled for 1 p.m. at the Presidential Villa.
“Everybody you see here was invited by the Chair for a brief discussion… on whether or not we should proceed in view of a very urgent assignment at the Villa,” he said.
Akpabio then urged Goje to approach the chair and join the meeting — an invitation the former governor declined.
“I don’t want to be part of it,” Goje retorted.