Nigeria’s Senate officially declares Okpebholo’s seat vacant

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has officially declared the Senate seat of Francis Okpebholo vacant following his victory in the September governorship election in Edo State and subsequent assumption of office.

The declaration was made on Wednesday during a valedictory session held in honour of Okpebholo, following a request by Abba Moro, the Senate Minority Leader.

Okpebholo, who previously represented Edo Central Senatorial District, vacated his position after assuming office as the Governor of Edo State in November.

Akpabio directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a by-election to fill the vacant seat.

“So in line with your letter and the Constitution, the seat of Edo Central Senatorial District is hereby declared vacant,” Akpabio stated.

“This vacancy has become necessary following Senator Monday Okpebholo’s inauguration as governor of Edo State, and in accordance with the Constitution, his seat is now deemed vacant, and we invite you to declare,” Moro said.