The Senate has made a U-turn on its Tuesday’s decision as it has rescinded a controversial amendment that barred first-time senators from contesting presiding offices, reopening the 2027 race for Senate President and Deputy Senate President.
The Nigerian Senate on Thursday, reversed the amendments to the Senate Standing Orders.
The reversal effectively reignites competition for leadership roles in the 11th National Assembly, paving the way for individuals such as Hope Uzodinma, Adams Oshiomhole, and others to compete for Senate President in 2027.
themomentng recalls that on Tuesday, the Senate amended its standing rules to narrow eligibility for presiding and principal offices.
Under the revised rules, only senators with at least eight years of continuous service in the chamber can contest for the offices of Senate President and Deputy Senate President.
The amendment also affects other key positions in the red chamber.
Order 4 provides that nomination for presiding offices must strictly follow ranking, including former Senate Presidents, former Deputy Senate Presidents, former principal officers, senators who have served at least one term, former members of the House of Representatives and first-time senators where others are unavailable.
Order 5 further states that no senator shall be eligible to contest for any principal office unless he has served at least two consecutive terms immediately before nomination.
The amendment effectively bars incoming senators in 2027 who were not members of both the 9th and 10th Senate from contesting for Senate President, Deputy Senate President, Senate Leader, Chief Whip, Minority Leader and other influential positions.
Before the amendment, any ranking senator who had spent at least four years in the National Assembly could contest for presiding offices.
However, the lawmakers agreed that the revised rules may bring about constitutional challenges and unintended tensions.
The lawmakers noted that Senate Standing Orders must remain consistent with the provisions of the Nigerian constitution and global best legislative practices.
The Senate, therefore, rescinded its earlier resolve regarding the amendment of its standing orders.
