The Power Brokers in the Senate

Vanguard

6 June 2011

The Power Brokers in the Senate

analysis

The President of the Senate is undoubtedly the most influential person among the 109 men and women members of Nigeria's most influential and exclusive club. His ruling on any issue or his intervention in a debate inevitably shapes the course and outcome of any debate.

The tradition of voice voting on many issues gives the Senate President the privilege to rule on any issue according to his hearing. The Senate's rules further give the presiding officer the exclusive preserve of interpretation of the rules. As such irrespective of what a Senator says on the rule or any matter, the ruling of the Senate President or his deputy or a President Pro Tempore who presides in the absence of the duo, stands.

As has happened in a number of cases, especially during the Anyim Senate, the majority of Senators could say yes, but the Senate President in his wisdom could rule nay. And his decision would stand.