Natasha Akpoti: Throwback video shows moment Akpabio clashed with Saraki  over seating arrangement

A footage of the moment Senate President Akpabio clashed with then Senate President Saraki in 2018.

This comes as Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, clashed with Senate President Godswill Akpabio after he ordered her out of the Senate chamber during plenary on Thursday.

In the video, a heated argument between then-Senate President Bukola Saraki and Senator Godswill Akpabio threw the Nigerian Senate into disarray during a plenary session in October 2018.

The disagreement arose when Saraki refused to allow Akpabio, a former minority leader, to contribute to a debate, citing that he was seated in the wrong position.

The drama unfolded after Senator Bassey Akpan raised a point of order, accusing the All Progressives Congress (APC) of plotting chaos in Akwa Ibom ahead of the general elections. As APC senators protested, Akpan completed his remarks, and Saraki moved on to other matters.

However, Akpabio attempted to contribute, but Saraki stopped him.

“Senator… eh… former Minority Leader, you know you can’t speak from there. Go to your seat, and when you get there, I’ll recognize you,” Saraki stated firmly.

Senate Leader Ahmed Lawan stepped in, defending Akpabio’s right to speak, arguing that the Clerk of the Senate had assigned him the seat. Saraki denied this, insisting that seating arrangements followed his directives.

The exchange sparked a shouting match, with senators arguing across party lines. Amid the uproar, Senator Emmanuel Paulker reminded the chamber of Senate Standing Order 43, which prohibits contributions to personal explanations. This was backed by Senator Biodun Olujimi, who urged Akpabio to remain silent.

As tensions escalated, Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu attempted to restore order, but was interrupted. Senate Leader Lawan protested against perceived bias, declaring, “There should be equity. You cannot discriminate against us!”

Akpabio later stood his ground, demanding an apology from Saraki, calling the situation an “embarrassment.” His demand triggered further reactions, with APC lawmakers insisting Saraki should apologize.