The Nigerian Senate had a rowdy session on Wednesday during deliberations on the contentious Tax Reform Bill that led to a shouting match between lawmakers.

The debate presided over by Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, took a dramatic turn when Senate Leader Michael Opeyemi Bamidele invoked Order 12(1) to suspend standard Senate Rules, seeking permission for the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and tax experts to address the chamber.

Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume objected strongly, emphasising that the Tax Reform Bill was not on the Order Paper and that Senate rules prohibit discussions on unlisted matters without proper procedural adjustments.

“This is a very important matter, and we must follow the rules,” Ndume stated, warning that circumventing protocol undermines legislative integrity.

He urged the Senate to ensure proper representation of Nigerians’ interests, stressing the bill’s significance in the face of public concerns.

Despite Ndume’s objections, Barau defended the decision, insisting the Senate acted within the rules, and dismissed the argument as an unnecessary rhetoric.

His remarks inflamed tensions, causing the session to become chaotic.

Deputy Senate President Barau eventually restored order, ruling Ndume out of order and allowing the FIRS officials to proceed with their presentation.

The incident highlighted the heightened sensitivity surrounding the Tax Reform Bill, which has sparked widespread debate due to its potential economic impact on Nigerians.