The Senate has formally distanced itself from comments credited to Senator Adams Oshiomhole, in which he allegedly described the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) as “a bunch of criminals and thieves.”
The upper legislative chamber clarified that the statement does not reflect its official stance, resolution, or findings, stressing that it should be regarded as the personal opinion of the lawmaker.
This position was adopted during plenary on Thursday following a motion moved by Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele.
Lawmakers further resolved that no Senate committee is empowered to issue or enforce arrest warrants except in line with the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act and with the explicit approval of the Senate President.
The resolution came a day after reports that the Senate Committee on Public Accounts had considered issuing a warrant of arrest against the former Group Chief Executive Officer of the NNPCL, Mele Kyari, over alleged failure to honour committee invitations.
During the debate, senators criticised the remarks attributed to Oshiomhole, describing them as an attack on the integrity of public officials and institutions.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin and Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro were among those who cautioned the Edo senator, urging restraint in public commentary to avoid undermining state institutions.
The Senate reiterated its commitment to due process, constitutional provisions, and orderly legislative conduct in the exercise of its oversight functions.
There are also calls from some lawmakers for Senator Oshiomhole to formally withdraw his statement.