The Nigerian Senate has officially declared the Edo Central Senatorial seat in the National Assembly vacant, following the inauguration of Senator Monday Okpebholo as the Governor of Edo State. This decision was announced by the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, during Wednesday’s plenary session, marking a significant political shift in the state’s representation at the federal level.
The declaration is in line with Section 68(1)(b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which mandates that a lawmaker’s seat becomes vacant upon assuming another public office. Senator Okpebholo, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), was sworn in as governor on November 12, 2024, creating a constitutional obligation for the Senate to act.
Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), representing Benue South, initiated the process by submitting a formal letter to the Senate. In the letter, Moro emphasized the constitutional requirement to vacate Okpebholo’s senatorial seat, stating:
“This vacancy has become necessary following Senator Monday Okpebholo’s inauguration as governor. In compliance with the Constitution, his seat is now deemed vacant. I respectfully request that the Senate President make the declaration and notify INEC accordingly.”
In response, the Senate President upheld Moro’s request and directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to organize a bye-election to fill the vacancy. The decision underscores the Senate’s commitment to adhering to constitutional provisions and ensuring uninterrupted representation for Edo Central Senatorial District.
With the declaration, attention now shifts to INEC to determine the timeline for the bye-election, while political parties in Edo State are expected to begin preparations to field candidates for the vacant seat.
