A heated argument erupted between Senators Adams Oshiomhole and Ali Ndume during the screening of Reno Omokri for an ambassadorial appointment on Thursday, December 11. The disagreement centered on Omokri’s eligibility for the diplomatic post.
Video footage from the session shows Oshiomhole and Ndume engaging in a shouting match over the nominee. Oshiomhole expressed strong support for Omokri, citing his consistent efforts to defend Nigeria and describing him as a pragmatist who prioritizes the nation’s interests.
Ndume, on the other hand, insisted that due process must be followed for all ambassadorial nominations. Oshiomhole responded firmly, stating, “Until you are called, you cannot shut me down. I have the authority of the chairman. You’re not the chairman and cannot exercise the power you don’t have. I cannot be intimidated by people who go here and there. After all we have seen people on television questioning this list. We cannot pretend we have not heard stories.”
Oshiomhole further defended Omokri, saying, “This young man has shown that where he sees compelling evidence in the interest of the Nigerian nation, he will not be ashamed to say that ‘I was wrong in my assumption’. From what I have seen, this man is working, and he deserved the support of all those who want progressive governance.”
The exchange highlighted tensions within the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs as it continues screening non-career ambassadorial nominees submitted by President Bola Tinubu.
