After Senator Monday Okpebholo was sworn in as Edo State’s governor, Senate President Godswill Akpabio formally announced that the Edo Central Senatorial District seat was open.
This choice was in accordance with Section 68(1)(b) of the Federal Republic of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, as amended, which states that a lawmaker’s seat becomes vacant when they take on another public position.
Following a letter outlining the constitutional mandate mandating the declaration of vacancy, Senate Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro made the news.
Additionally, the letter urged the Senate to inform the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) so that a by-election can be held to replace the vacancy.
“This vacancy has become necessary following Senator Monday Opebholo’s inauguration as the governor of Edo State. In compliance with the Constitution, his seat is now deemed vacant, and I respectfully request that the Senate President make the declaration and notify INEC accordingly.”
Akpabio affirmed the constitutional basis for the declaration and directed INEC to organize elections to fill the now-vacant seat.
He emphasised the need for consistent representation for the people of Edo Central in the Senate.
During the session, Akpabio added a touch of humor as he bid farewell to Senator Opebholo, stating, “This will be the last time we grant you the privilege to address this Senate. You may now step forward, take a bow, and be led out by the Sergeant-at-Arms.”
The humorous comment highlighted the unity of legislators while the Senate fulfilled its constitutional and legislative duties. To guarantee that the constituents are still represented in the National Assembly’s upper house, INEC is now responsible for holding a by-election to fill the Edo Central Senatorial District seat.
The Senate’s dedication to maintaining constitutional provisions and guaranteeing the smooth operation of Nigeria’s democratic processes was evidenced by this development. After being sworn in as governor of Edo State, Senator Okpebholo, who served as the senator for the Edo Central Senatorial District in the 10th Senate, gave a moving farewell statement on the Senate floor.
Reflecting on his brief tenure, which began in June 2023, Okpebholo expressed deep appreciation for his colleagues, acknowledging their immense support throughout his time in the Red Chambers.
“From the very first moment I joined this Senate, every moment has been memorable. The relationships I’ve built here are invaluable, and I will carry them with me as I transition into my new role as governor,” he said, visibly emotional.
He extended special thanks to Senate President Godswill Akpabio for his “uncommon” support during his gubernatorial campaign, highlighting Akpabio’s leadership and guidance as key pillars in his journey.
He also expressed gratitude to Deputy Senate President Senator Barau Jibrin for his political wisdom and to Senate Majority Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele for his unwavering friendship.
He indicated that his stint in the Senate had influenced his vision for governance, particularly in the areas of infrastructure development, security, education, and healthcare.
Okpebholo assured his colleagues that he would remain an ambassador of the Senate, continuing to represent their shared values in his new role.
