How Saraki handed Ndume a cold reception at plenary

The Senate had on March 30, 2017, suspended Ndume sequel to recommendations by its committee on ethics and privileges on media reports against two Senators – Senate President Bukola Saraki and Dino Melaye.

He was suspended for six months.

Upon completion of the suspension, Ndume arrived the National Assembly in his usual white short-sleeve kaftan.

After a few ‘hey’ and ‘hi’, he proceeded to the Senate chamber.

The mace-bearer announced Senate President Bukola Saraki’s arrival to the chamber.

ALSO READ: Real reason why Senator was suspended for 6 months

As a tradition, Saraki took the prayers.

Votes and proceedings of Tuesday, November 14, 2017 were approved and seconded by Senators Abu Ibrahim and Sam Anyanwu, respectively.

Saraki then read a letter of appreciation from Senator Danjuma Goje to his colleagues thanking them for their support and presence during the burial ceremony of his late wife, Yelwa.

The Senate also received petitions from Senators Solomon Olamilaken Adeola and Ovie Omo-Agege on behalf of their constituents.

In a point of order, deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu commended the Super Eagles on their victory against Argentina.

Senator Emmanuel Bwacha raised a point of order on the Inspector general of Police, Ibrahim Idris withdrawal of the Anambra State Governor's security aides.

The matter was debated and the Senate urged the IGP to restore Willie Obiano’s aides.

Then Senator Ndume rose up to speak for the first time in seven months.

“Mr President, distinguished colleagues, you know that I’ve been away for seven and half months and coming in today,” Ndume began.

“We all know that in my absence, we lost Distinguished Senator Isiaka Adeleke, who was sitting right behind me. I used to call him my landlord.

“I didn’t have the opportunity to pay my tribute, I want to appeal to this Senate to again stand for a minute silence and pray for the repose of his soul,” he concluded.

Ndume had barely sat down when Saraki responded: “Your point of order is noted”.

That was the end.

Saraki then called on the Senate leader, Ahmed Lawan to read the next item on the order paper.

ALSO READ: Ndume says he won’t apologize to Saraki

Many had expected the Senate President either put a question to the lawmakers to either grant or reject Ndume’s request.

“Even if Saraki did not want Ndume’s request, he should have explained to him that the Senate had observed a minute silence for late Senator Adeleke and there was no need for another one,” a colleague said.

Saraki’s action raised questions as to whether there was "still any contention" between him and Ndume.

Speaking to and other journalists at the National Assembly shortly after the incident, Ndume said he holds no grievances against any of his colleagues.

He shared his thoughts on the decision of the Senate to appeal the Federal High Court's judgement in his favour.

“I didn’t go to court for my personal reason. I went to court to find out if what was done to me was right or wrong. The court decided that what was done to me was wrong but the Senate says it would appeal the judgment.

“Whatever I did is not personal and I am not taking it personally against anybody. If anybody thinks my action is personal, I leave that to God who is the ultimate judge and we will all account for our deeds in the world after.

“After this address, I am heading straight to the airport then to the Holy Land to perform the lesser Hajj and thank God.

“I am a son of nobody who became somebody without knowing anybody,” he added.

Is the cold war between Saraki and Ndume over?

Time will tell.