Nigerian Senate Declares Okpebholo’s Seat Vacant

Nigerian Senate Declared the Seat of Edo Central Senatorial District Vacant.

The Nigerian Senate has officially announced the vacancy of the Edo Central Senatorial seat following the inauguration of Senator Monday Okpebholo as Governor of Edo State on November 12, 2024, in accordance with constitutional provisions.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio made the formal announcement on Wednesday after receiving a letter from Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro requesting the recognition of the seat’s vacancy.

This online news media learns that action is based on Section 68(1)(b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which states that a lawmaker’s legislative position automatically becomes vacant upon assuming another public office.

Senator Moro’s letter specifically referenced the constitutional requirement, indicating that Okpebholo’s transition from senator to governor necessitates the vacancy of the seat.

“This vacancy has become necessary following Senator Monday Okpebholo’s inauguration as governor. In compliance with the Constitution, his seat is now deemed vacant,” Moro wrote.

Following the declaration, Senate President Akpabio has instructed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a by-election for the Edo Central Senatorial District.

This ensures ongoing representation for the district in the upper legislative chamber.

Okpebholo was elected governor in the gubernatorial election held on September 21, 2024, representing the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Upon his inauguration, he formally concluded his tenure as a senator, resulting in the current vacancy.

Before departing from the Senate, Okpebholo bid farewell to his colleagues, expressing his gratitude and pledging to remain an ambassador for the legislative body during his transition to the executive branch.

The vacant seat signifies that the Edo Central Senatorial District currently lacks representation in the Senate.

The forthcoming by-election will provide constituents with the opportunity to elect a new representative to fill the position vacated by Okpebholo.

INEC is anticipated to announce the details of the by-election in the upcoming weeks, allowing political parties to prepare their candidate nominations and initiate campaign activities.

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