The Senate has distanced itself from remarks by Senator Adams Oshiomhole describing the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) as “a bunch of criminals and thieves,” insisting that the comments do not represent the official position of the upper legislative chamber.
The Senate also clarified that no committee of the National Assembly has the authority to issue, authorise, or execute a warrant of arrest except in accordance with the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act and with the express approval of the Senate President.
The resolutions followed a motion moved by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, during plenary on Thursday.
The clarification comes a day after the Senate Committee on Public Accounts reportedly recommended the issuance of a warrant of arrest against the immediate past Group Chief Executive Officer of the NNPCL, Mele Kyari, over his alleged failure to honour invitations extended by the committee.
During the debate, several lawmakers condemned Oshiomhole’s remarks, arguing that personal opinions expressed by individual senators should not be interpreted as the position of the Senate.
NNPCL registered with N2.9bn, not N5.8bn, Ex-CFO provides details pic.twitter.com/BJ0D2q4n67
— Africa Independent Television (@AIT_Online) June 11, 2026
Among those who spoke were Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin and Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro, who cautioned the senator representing Edo North against making statements capable of undermining public institutions.
The lawmakers urged members of the Senate to remain guided by the Constitution and the Senate Standing Orders in the discharge of their legislative responsibilities.
The Senate reaffirmed its commitment to due process, legislative decorum, and strict adherence to established legal procedures in carrying out its oversight functions.
Some senators also called on Adams Oshiomhole to publicly withdraw the statement.
Responding to the criticism, Oshiomhole defended his comments, saying they were made in reaction to what he described as attacks on lawmakers by NNPCL officials.
He maintained that he had no intention of bringing the Senate into disrepute and was only defending the institution and its members.
‘NNPC is a house of thieves’ – Senator Oshiomhole clashes with NNPC official at Senate committee hearing pic.twitter.com/teCGdWKB5B
— Nigerian Affairs Journal (@NigAffairs) June 10, 2026
The development comes amid controversy surrounding the reported arrest warrant recommendation against Kyari.
In a letter that surfaced shortly after the committee’s action, the former NNPCL chief reportedly informed lawmakers that he was outside the country receiving critical medical treatment.
The letter, dated May 8, 2026, began circulating following the committee’s recommendation, adding a new dimension to the ongoing dispute between the Senate committee and the former NNPCL boss.
