The Nigerian Senate has declared the seat for Edo Central Senatorial District vacant following the inauguration of Senator Monday Okpebholo as the Governor of Edo State on November 12, 2024. This decision complies with Section 68(1)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates that a lawmaker’s seat becomes vacant once they assume another public office. The announcement was made by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during a plenary session.
Senate President Akpabio directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a by-election to fill the now-vacant seat. This move ensures continued representation for the people of Edo Central in the upper chamber of the National Assembly. The Senate leadership stressed the importance of maintaining the voice of the district within the federal legislative framework.
Prior to the formal declaration, the Senate held a valedictory session to honor Okpebholo’s service as a senator. Fellow lawmakers praised his contributions to national development and described him as a diligent and principled legislator. Many senators expressed that his absence would be deeply felt, both personally and professionally, as he transitions to his new role as governor.
With Okpebholo’s departure, the Senate now has two vacant seats, as the Anambra South Senatorial District seat also remains unoccupied. The Anambra seat became vacant following the death of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah on July 27, 2024. The simultaneous vacancies highlight the need for INEC to expedite by-elections to ensure full representation across the country.
This development underscores the constitutional provisions governing political office transitions in Nigeria. While Okpebholo embarks on his new responsibilities as governor, his departure from the Senate emphasizes the importance of clear processes to uphold democratic principles and ensure effective representation for constituents in all legislative chambers.
