…As Okpebholo, Idahosa bids Nat’l Assembly farewell

The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has formally declared the Edo Central Senatorial seat vacant following the inauguration of Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the Governor of Edo State on November 12, 2024.

Also declared vacant by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abass is the Ovia North-East/Ovia South-West federal constituency seat previously occupied by Hon. Dennis Idahosa, now Deputy Governor of Edo State.

The declaration is in line with Section 68(1)(b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended)

The announcement at the Senate followed a letter submitted by Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) citing the constitutional requirement to declare the seat vacant and urged the Senate President to notify the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a fresh election for the district.

“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 to make the declaration and notify INEC accordingly,” Moro wrote.

In a swift response, Senate President Akpabio affirmed the constitutional basis for the decision, officially declared the seat vacant, and directed INEC to organize a by-election to ensure Edo Central Senatorial District continues to have representation in the upper chamber.

At a valedictory session in honour of Senator Okpebholo, lawmakers expressed their happiness over Okpebholo’s emergence as Governor, while sharing mixed emotions about his departure from the Senate.

They praised his humility, hard work, dedication, and commitment, highlighting his deep connection with his people and the nation.

Senate President, Godswill Akpabio praised the Governor’s legacy of action and his effective leadership as Chairman of the Committee on Public Procurement. Akpabio wished Okpebholo continued success in his new role.

Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, described the Governor as humble and action-oriented, noting that his election as Governor was a result of his genuine care for the people.

Senator Adams Oshiomhole highlighted Okpebholo’s rapid rise from Senator to Governor, emphasizing his humility and infectious dedication.

Senator Danjuma Goje commended Okpebholo for remaining steadfast in his commitment to his duties, even during his transition to the governorship. He urged him to stay focused on his goals in Edo State.

In his valedictory speech, Governor Okpebholo expressed gratitude to his colleagues for their kind words and support.

He thanked Senate President Akpabio, Deputy Senate President Jibrin, Majority Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, and other Senators for their encouragement during his campaign and time in the Senate.

He also acknowledged the support of close friends like Senators Kaka Shehu Lawan, Babangida Husseini Uba, and Abdulaziz Yari.

Okpebholo pledged to be a good ambassador of the Senate as he transitions into his new role as Governor of Edo State.

The session, presided over by the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, saw almost all lawmakers in attendance.