"You Are Just Two Months Senator" — Oshiomhole, Umahi Lock Horns During Heated Budget Defence Session

Tensions flared at the National Assembly on Wednesday as Minister of Works David Umahi and Senator Adams Oshiomhole engaged in a fiery exchange during the ministry's 2026 budget defence.

The confrontation, which unfolded in real-time before lawmakers and aides, has since dominated political discourse, with video clips of the clash circulating widely across social media platforms.

"You Can't Use Foul Language on Me"

According to sources within the hearing room, the disagreement escalated after Umahi took exception to what he perceived as disrespectful language from the Edo North senator.

"You can't use foul language on me. I'm a distinguished Nigerian," the minister was heard telling Oshiomhole, his voice audibly strained.

The former Edo State governor, known for his combative legislative style, appeared unrelenting in his scrutiny of the ministry's budget proposals—a posture that clearly rankled the works minister.

Hanga Intervenes: "Mind Your Words"

As the exchange intensified, Senator Rufai Sani Hanga, representing Kano Central, stepped in to caution the minister.

"You are just two months senator, Mr. Umahi," Hanga interjected—a pointed reminder of Oshiomhole's extensive legislative tenure compared to Umahi's relatively brief experience on the other side of the chamber floor.

The remark appeared to recalibrate the atmosphere, and Oshiomhole was subsequently allowed to continue his submissions without further interruption.

Budget Defence or Political Sparring?

The clash underscores the increasingly charged atmosphere surrounding the 2026 appropriation process, as lawmakers balance oversight responsibilities with the executive branch's spending proposals.

For Oshiomhole, a veteran labour leader turned two-term governor and now first-term senator, robust engagement with ministers is familiar terrain. For Umahi, a former Ebonyi State governor appointed to the federal cabinet in 2023, the encounter offered an early lesson in navigating the National Assembly's often-unforgiving political dynamics.

Neither principal has issued an official statement regarding the incident since the session adjourned.