Senators Oshiomhole and Ndume Clash Over Reno Omokri’s Ambassadorial Nomination

A fiery exchange erupted between Senators Adams Oshiomhole and Ali Ndume on Thursday during the screening of Reno Omokri for an ambassadorial appointment. The Edo-born former presidential aide appeared before the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, but the session quickly turned contentious as the two lawmakers disagreed sharply over his eligibility.

Oshiomhole expressed full support for Omokri, describing him as a committed Nigerian who consistently defends the country. “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’,” Oshiomhole said, praising Omokri’s pragmatism. He added, “From what I have seen, this man is working, and he deserved the support of all those who want progressive governance.”

Ndume, however, stressed that due process must be followed in evaluating nominees. He appeared to challenge Oshiomhole’s backing of Omokri, prompting a heated verbal exchange between the two senators. Oshiomhole, refusing to be silenced, shot back, “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.”