ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has officially declared the Edo Central Senatorial seat vacant following Senator Monday Okpebholo’s inauguration as Governor of Edo State on November 12, 2024.
This decision adheres to Section 68(1)(b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which stipulates that a lawmaker’s seat becomes vacant upon assuming another public office.
The announcement on Wednesday came after Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), representing Benue South, submitted a formal letter urging the Senate President to make the declaration.
In his letter, Moro stated, “This vacancy has become necessary following Senator Monday Okpebholo’s inauguration as governor.
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“In compliance with the Constitution, his seat is now deemed vacant. I respectfully request that the Senate President make the declaration and notify INEC accordingly.”
Responding to the submission, Senate President Akpabio affirmed the constitutional basis for the move, formally declared the Edo Central seat vacant, and directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to organize a by-election to elect a new representative for the district.
Senator Monday Okpebholo, who represented Edo Central under the All Progressives Congress (APC), emerged as governor following the Edo State gubernatorial election held on September 21, 2024.
Bidding farewell to his colleagues in the 10th Senate, Okpebholo expressed his gratitude, stating, “I will remain an ambassador of the Senate as I transition to the executive branch.
“I am committed to upholding the values and principles of this chamber in my new role.”
With the Senate’s decision, INEC is expected to schedule a by-election to ensure Edo Central Senatorial District continues to have representation in the National Assembly.
This development marks the beginning of Okpebholo’s governorship tenure and highlights the Senate’s adherence to constitutional procedures for maintaining legislative integrity.