The Senate declared the Edo Central Senatorial seat vacant after Monday Okpebholo became Governor of Edo State. Senate President Akpabio urged INEC to organize a by-election to fill the vacancy. Okpebholo bid farewell, pledging to represent Senate values as he transitions to his new executive role.
The Senate has announced that the Edo Central Senatorial seat is officially vacant following the inauguration of Monday Okpebholo as Governor of Edo State on November 12, 2024. This decision complies with Section 68(1)(b) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, which mandates the vacating of a legislative seat when its occupant assumes another public office.
Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro raised the matter in a formal letter, highlighting the constitutional requirement and requesting that the Senate notify the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a by-election. In his letter, Moro stated, “With Senator Okpebholo’s transition to the governorship, it is necessary to declare the seat vacant to ensure representation for Edo Central.”
Responding swiftly, Senate President Godswill Akpabio acknowledged the constitutional provisions and declared the seat vacant. He directed INEC to organize a by-election to fill the vacancy.
As he bid farewell to his Senate colleagues, Okpebholo expressed appreciation for their support and pledged to uphold the values of the legislative arm in his new role as governor. He emphasized his commitment to being a bridge between the legislature and the executive.
