Senate declares Edo Governor Okpebholo’s seat vacant

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has officially declared the Edo Central Senatorial District seat vacant following the inauguration of Senator Monday Okpebholo as governor of Edo State.

This decision complied with 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 followed a letter from Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, who outlined the constitutional mandate requiring the declaration of vacancy.

The letter also called on the Senate to notify the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to organise a by-election to fill the seat.

“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 light-hearted remark underscored the camaraderie among lawmakers even as the Senate adhered to its legislative and constitutional responsibilities.

INEC is now tasked with scheduling a by-election to fill the Edo Central Senatorial District seat, ensuring that the constituents continue to have representation in the upper chamber of the National Assembly.

This development demonstrated the Senate’s commitment to upholding constitutional provisions and ensuring the seamless functioning of Nigeria’s democratic processes.

Senator Okpebholo, who represented Edo Central Senatorial District in the 10th Senate, delivered a heartfelt valedictory speech on the floor of the Senate as he officially stepped down following his inauguration as the Governor of Edo State.

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.