ABUJA – President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to promptly conduct by-elections for the Edo Central and Anambra South Senatorial Districts following recent vacancies.
Speaking during plenary on Monday, Akpabio emphasized the urgency of filling the seats left vacant by Senator Monday Okpebholo of Edo Central and the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah of Anambra South.
Okpebholo, who previously represented Edo Central under the All Progressives Congress (APC), vacated his senatorial seat after winning the Edo State gubernatorial election held on September 21, 2024. He was sworn in as governor on November 12, 2024. In line with Section 68(1)(b) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which stipulates that a lawmaker’s seat becomes vacant upon assuming another public office, the Senate formally declared his position vacant in December 2024.
The motion for the declaration was reinforced by Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South), who submitted a letter urging the Senate President to notify INEC and facilitate a fresh election in Edo Central.
“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,” Moro stated.
Similarly, the Anambra South Senatorial seat became vacant following the tragic passing of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah on July 26, 2024. The Senate had earlier honored the late lawmaker with a valedictory session on November 19, 2024, where colleagues and dignitaries paid tribute to his legacy in politics, business, and humanitarian efforts.
With both seats now officially unoccupied, Akpabio has urged INEC to take immediate steps to conduct by-elections to ensure full representation for the affected districts.
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