Senate disowns arrest warrant for ex-NNPCL chief, distances self from Oshiomhole’s remarks

The Senate on Thursday clarified that it has no involvement in the reported issuance of an arrest warrant against former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Mele Kyari. It also distanced itself from comments by Senator Adams Oshiomhole, who had described the NNPCL as “a bunch of criminals and thieves.”

During plenary, the upper legislative chamber stressed that no Senate committee has the authority to issue, authorise, or execute a warrant of arrest without the express approval of the Senate President and strict compliance with the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act.

The resolution followed a motion by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, who warned that any attempt by a committee to independently issue such a warrant could amount to an unlawful exercise of power. He noted that statements like Oshiomhole’s could be misinterpreted as the official position of the Senate and undermine public confidence in oversight proceedings.

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin backed the motion, stating that committees are subordinate to the Senate and can only make recommendations. Several other senators, including Mohammed Tahir Monguno and Abba Moro, called for decorum and adherence to the rule of law.

Senator Adams Oshiomhole defended his comments, saying they were made under provocation after NNPCL officials allegedly attacked lawmakers. He expressed willingness to apologise if the Senate deemed it necessary, but insisted he acted in defence of the institution.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio restored order after a brief uproar, reminding lawmakers that the motion was limited to the unparliamentary remarks and the procedural breach regarding the arrest warrant.

The development came as Kyari, through a letter, claimed he was abroad receiving critical medical care.