Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct by-elections for Edo Central and Anambra South Senatorial Districts following the vacancies left by Senator Monday Okpebholo and the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.
During plenary in Abuja, Akpabio emphasized the urgency of the elections, noting that Okpebholo vacated his seat after winning the Edo State governorship election, while Ubah’s seat became vacant following his tragic passing on July 26, 2024.
The Senate had earlier declared Okpebholo’s seat vacant in line with Section 68(1)(b) of the 1999 Constitution after his swearing-in as Edo governor on November 12, 2024. Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro formally requested that INEC be notified to conduct a fresh election.
Meanwhile, the Senate previously honored Senator Ubah in a valedictory session on November 19, 2024, recognizing his contributions to politics and public service. The lawmakers observed a minute of silence and announced plans to immortalize him by naming a Senate hall in his honor.
With the vacancies now official, all eyes are on INEC to set a date for the by-elections that will determine the new representatives for Edo Central and Anambra South.
