No Rift in Senate Leadership, Senate Debunk Media Reports of Akpabio-Bamidele Clash

By Onwe Wisdom| Pan Afric Reporters| NASS, Abuja, July 27, 2025

The Nigerian Senate has firmly dismissed reports suggesting a disagreement between the President of the Senate, His Excellency Godswill Akpabio, GCON, and Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, CON, during a recent executive session.

In a statement released today by Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Publicity, the Senate described the reports as “entirely untrue” and a misrepresentation of parliamentary traditions.

“Our attention has been drawn to diverse media reports claiming a clash between the Senate President and the Senate Leader during deliberations on whether to proceed on annual recess. These reports do not contain any iota of truth,” Adaramodu stated.

He emphasized that the internal deliberations of the Senate are governed by established parliamentary procedures, which allow for open and robust debate among members, a practice that should not be misinterpreted as internal conflict.

“In parliaments worldwide, including Nigeria’s, it is normal and healthy for lawmakers to engage in rigorous debate, ask questions, and interrogate policy proposals. This process reflects the Senate’s commitment to serving the interests of over 230 million Nigerians,” he said.

Adaramodu further clarified that what some media outlets described as a “clash” was in fact a routine legislative exchange aimed at scrutinizing proposals before approval. He reaffirmed that the leadership of the Senate remains united and focused on its constitutional duties.

“Whether in the chamber or committee room, debates on policy issues should not be misconstrued as altercations among members. There is no crack in our ranks,” he concluded.

The Senate called on the media to exercise greater accuracy in its reporting and to uphold the integrity of democratic institutions by avoiding sensationalism.