DRAMA: Senators clash, reject ‘bow and go’ for Defence Ministerial Nominee Gen. Musa
DRAMA: Senators clash, reject ‘bow and go’ for Defence Ministerial Nominee Gen. Musa
A tense moment unfolded in the Senate on Wednesday as lawmakers openly disagreed over whether President Bola Tinubu’s ministerial nominee, former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Christopher Musa (rtd), should be allowed to “take a bow and go” without undergoing questioning during his confirmation hearing.
The gesture typically reserved for former federal lawmakers and select individuals considered deserving of such privilege quickly became a point of contention.
The uproar began when Senator Sani Musa (Niger East) proposed that the retired CDS be excused from scrutiny due to his distinguished military career.
“Given his distinguished service as Chief of Defence Staff, I move that he be allowed to take a bow and go,” he said.
His motion immediately drew sharp resistance from other Senators, who argued that Musa must be thoroughly screened like other nominees.
Within seconds, the chamber descended into chaos as lawmakers shouted over one another.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio repeatedly called for calm as the heated exchanges intensified.
General Musa, who stepped down as CDS in October 2025, was nominated by President Tinubu to serve as Minister of Defence.
According to the presidency, the appointment is intended to “strengthen the nation’s security architecture with experienced hands.”
