The Senate has officially distanced itself from remarks made by Senator Adams Oshiomhole in which the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) was reportedly described as being populated by “criminals and thieves.”
During Thursday’s plenary session, lawmakers clarified that the comments reflected the personal opinion of the Edo North senator and should not be interpreted as the position of the Red Chamber.
The decision followed a motion presented by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, prompting extensive debate among lawmakers over the conduct of oversight investigations and the need to protect the integrity of public institutions.
In its resolutions, the Senate stressed that neither Oshiomhole’s remarks nor any related comments made during committee proceedings constitute an official finding or resolution of the National Assembly.
The chamber also moved to clarify reports surrounding an alleged arrest warrant against former NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari. Senators maintained that no Senate committee possesses the authority to independently issue or execute a warrant of arrest without complying with statutory provisions and obtaining the approval of the Senate President.
The clarification came amid controversy generated by reports that the Senate Committee on Public Accounts had considered recommending Kyari’s arrest over his alleged failure to honour invitations connected to an ongoing probe.
Several lawmakers voiced concern over Oshiomhole’s choice of words, arguing that public comments from senators should be measured and consistent with parliamentary standards.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin and Minority Leader Abba Moro were among those who cautioned against statements capable of eroding public trust in government institutions. They urged senators to remain guided by constitutional provisions and established legislative rules while carrying out their responsibilities.
Responding to criticism from colleagues, Oshiomhole defended his remarks, insisting they were made in reaction to what he perceived as attacks on the credibility of lawmakers.
According to him, members of the Senate had been accused by NNPCL officials of improper conduct, including influencing employment decisions within the organisation. He argued that his response was aimed at protecting the image of the legislature.
The former Edo State governor said he was willing to apologise if the Senate considered his comments inappropriate, adding that he had no intention of bringing the institution into disrepute.
Oshiomhole further argued that the Senate’s interest in the matter stemmed from concerns raised in a report by the Auditor-General of the Federation regarding funds allegedly not properly accounted for by the national oil company.
He told lawmakers that the issue before the Public Accounts Committee related to allegations involving approximately N210 trillion and claimed that invitations extended to Kyari had not been honoured.
His attempt to expand on the matter during plenary triggered objections from some senators, leading to a brief exchange on the floor before order was restored.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio subsequently reminded members that the debate was restricted to the issue of Oshiomhole’s remarks and concerns over adherence to proper procedures in matters relating to warrants of arrest.
At the conclusion of deliberations, the Senate reaffirmed its commitment to due process, legislative discipline and the rule of law, insisting that all oversight activities must be conducted within the framework established by the Constitution and relevant statutes.
