In a landmark decision, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has declared the seat of Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, vacant, citing the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The declaration was made on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, shortly after the Senate held a valedictory session in honor of Governor Okpebholo, who was until recently the Senator representing Edo Central Senatorial District.
Governor Okpebholo had contested and won the Edo State governorship seat on September 16, 2024, under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He was subsequently inaugurated as the Governor of Edo State on November 12, 2024.
Citing Section 68(1)(b) of the Constitution, which states that a lawmaker’s seat becomes vacant upon assumption of another public office, Akpabio declared the seat vacant and called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a bye-election to fill the existing vacancy in the Red Chambers.
The Senate President also admonished Governor Okpebholo to remain committed to his responsibilities as the Governor of Edo State, ensuring that he prioritizes the welfare and well-being of the people of Edo State.