Senator Adams Oshiomhole accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of paranoia toward him. Oshiomhole made the claim during a recent interview. He alleged that Akpabio viewed him as a major threat within the Senate.
Oshiomhole spoke openly about the tensions. He stated, “If Akpabio has his way, he will lock me out of the Senate because he has misled himself into thinking that I’m probably the devil he knows.” Oshiomhole added that many other senators shared private complaints about Akpabio’s leadership style.
The remarks followed heated exchanges in the Senate. Senators clashed over amendments to standing rules that could affect the 2027 leadership race. Oshiomhole raised points of order during plenary sessions. Akpabio overruled him and enforced the new procedures.
Oshiomhole further alleged interference in investigations. He claimed Akpabio shielded the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited due to personal interests.
Oshiomhole described the NNPCL as a “house of thieves” during discussions about financial discrepancies. He linked the issues to Akpabio’s daughter’s employment at the company under former leadership.
Observers noted that the feud highlighted deeper divisions in the upper chamber. Oshiomhole implied that Akpabio saw him as a potential contender for future leadership roles. “Everybody in the Senate knows that if Senator Akpabio has his way, he would lock me out,” Oshiomhole said. He contrasted himself with “many angels” Akpabio did not know.
The accusations came amid broader Senate debates on accountability and governance. Neither Akpabio nor the Senate Presidency issued an immediate response to Oshiomhole’s claims. The exchange underscored ongoing personal and political rivalries as the 2027 elections approached.
