A mild drama unfolded in the Senate chamber on Wednesday after Senator Abdul Ningi, representing Bauchi Central, appeared in traditional regalia complete with a ceremonial staff, prompting concerns among lawmakers and humorous remarks from Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Ningi, who attended plenary dressed in attire associated with the Bachama Kingdom, drew attention when some senators raised questions about the staff he carried into the chamber.
Reacting to the development, Akpabio lightened the mood with a series of jokes while cautioning lawmakers about the object.
The Senate President remarked that what some people initially described as a dagger appeared more like a spear, joking that it was even more dangerous and advising senators to keep a safe distance from the Bauchi lawmaker.
The situation attracted further attention when officials of the Sergeant-at-Arms moved to take possession of the staff. However, Ningi declined to surrender the item, insisting that it was a sacred symbol linked to a traditional title recently conferred on him.
Explaining his position, the senator said the ceremonial object was part of his cultural heritage and not intended to threaten anyone.
According to him, he recently became the Pampamo, a title he described as the spokesperson of the Bachama Kingdom, and considered it an honour to represent the tradition and culture of the people.
Ningi stressed that he understood the rules guiding legislative proceedings and would not deliberately violate Senate regulations after nearly two decades in the National Assembly.
He maintained that the staff was merely a decorative traditional instrument and had earlier been used for photographs with members of the Senate leadership without incident.
The lawmaker also expressed disappointment that concerns were raised about the item without prior efforts to verify whether it posed any security risk.
Responding, Akpabio acknowledged the importance of cultural symbols but suggested that such items should be formally introduced through the appropriate parliamentary procedures.
He noted that if the senator had first sought permission through a personal explanation, the presentation of the traditional regalia would have been better understood by members of the chamber.
Following the exchange, Ningi agreed to remove the ceremonial items from the chamber.
As he exited, Akpabio continued the light-hearted mood, jokingly warning nearby senators to avoid contact with the staff and teasing Ningi about a neck ornament he said resembled a snake.
The incident briefly interrupted proceedings but ended amicably, with lawmakers sharing laughter as normal legislative business resumed.