The Senate has formally declared the Ondo South Senatorial seat vacant following the appointment of Jimoh Ibrahim as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, setting the stage for a fresh electoral contest in the district.
Announcing the decision during plenary, Senate President Godswill Akpabio said the declaration was in line with constitutional provisions that bar public officials from holding legislative office alongside executive or diplomatic appointments.
Akpabio explained that Ibrahim’s new role on the global stage necessitates his immediate exit from the National Assembly, effectively bringing his tenure as senator representing Ondo South Senatorial District to a close.
“The action is in strict compliance with the law,” Akpabio noted, adding that due process must be followed to ensure continuity of representation for constituents in the district.
Following the declaration, the Senate directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a bye-election within 30 days. The Clerk of the National Assembly was also mandated to immediately transmit the resolution to the electoral body to kick-start the process.
The development is expected to trigger heightened political activity across Ondo South, a strategic bloc in Ondo State, as political parties and aspirants begin mobilising ahead of the bye-election.
Analysts say the contest could serve as an early test of party strength and grassroots influence in the state, particularly as momentum gradually builds toward the 2027 general elections.
Ibrahim’s transition from the legislature to diplomacy marks a significant turn in his career, while the impending bye-election is poised to reshape the political dynamics within the senatorial district.
Senate Declares Seat Vacant as Jimoh Ibrahim Heads to UN, Orders Bye-Election
