Francis Nwifuru and David Umahi have defended Peter Nwaebonyi following a disagreement that occurred during the Senate budget defence session of the Federal Ministry of Works.
The incident took place on Wednesday during deliberations on road infrastructure funding. Senator Nwaebonyi, who represents Ebonyi North and serves as Senate Deputy Whip, was speaking on the performance of the Ministry when he was asked to conclude his remarks by the presiding officer, Rufai Hanga, Deputy Minority Whip.
Nwaebonyi objected, arguing that other senators had been allowed to speak for longer periods. The exchange briefly disrupted proceedings in the chamber.
The situation escalated when the presiding officer struck the gavel to enforce order. Nwaebonyi insisted on his right to speak as a ranking senator. Attempts were later made by senior lawmakers, including Ali Ndume and Adamu Aliero, to calm tensions.
The Ebonyi lawmaker subsequently exited the chamber, after which the Senate resumed the budget defence session.
Speaking to journalists, Minister Umahi stated that there was nothing inappropriate about the senator’s conduct. He said he had also spoken with Governor Nwifuru, who commended Nwaebonyi’s actions.
Umahi noted that Nwaebonyi remains a principal officer of the Senate and a member of the ruling party, adding that his intervention during the session should not be viewed negatively.
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