Nigerian Senate Reaffirms Commitment to Standing Rules

The Nigerian Senate has clarified that its recent disciplinary actions, including the controversy surrounding Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, were not arbitrary but rooted in established legislative rules.
Nigerian Senate Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, stressed this position during a one-day capacity-building workshop in Abuja. He declared that the Senate was not a “banana republic” and must function under strict adherence to its standing rules.

Adaramodu emphasized that Nigerians must understand that legislative order is sustained by compliance, not sentiment. He urged journalists covering parliamentary activities to take responsibility in enlightening the public on these procedures, thereby preventing misconceptions and unfounded criticisms of the chamber’s disciplinary measures.

Misconceptions Around Rules and Procedures

The Nigerian Senate spokesman pointed to Section 6(1) of the Senate Standing Rules, which empowers the Senate President to allocate and reassign seats, as one of the most misunderstood provisions. He explained that senators are bound to comply with these assignments to maintain decorum and recognition within the chamber.

“If a senator is assigned seat number 10 and chooses to sit on seat number 13, that senator will not be recognised by the Senate President. If the person insists on being recognised, trouble will certainly ensue,” Adaramodu stated.

He further explained that seat assignments are not permanent, but subject to the discretion of the Senate President. This, he argued, demonstrates the fluid but structured nature of legislative order, underscoring the necessity for both lawmakers and journalists to be well-versed in parliamentary rules.

Upholding Order and Credibility in the Nigerian Senate

Adaramodu noted that disobedience to established procedures threatens the Senate’s credibility and weakens its authority. He insisted that order in the chamber must be preserved at all times, irrespective of the personality involved.

“Journalists, like lawmakers, are expected to be knowledgeable about the Senate’s standing rules. When a senator fails to observe these rules, it is your duty to inform the public accurately,” he urged.

The spokesman reiterated that legislative governance depends on the rule of law, not individual preferences. He concluded that both senators and the public must respect these rules if the National Assembly is to maintain its integrity as an institution of democracy.