The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has formally declared three senatorial seats vacant following the death of members of the 10th Senate.
Akpabio made the announcement during plenary on Tuesday, describing the development as a tragic loss to the National Assembly and the country at large.
According to him, the vacancies affect Enugu North Senatorial District in Enugu State, Nasarawa North Senatorial District in Nasarawa State, and Rivers South East Senatorial District in Rivers State.
“These unfortunate events necessitate the conduct of midterm elections by the Independent National Electoral Commission to fill the affected seats,” he said.
Citing the provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the Senate President stated that the declaration was in line with legal requirements, paving the way for fresh elections to restore full representation in the affected constituencies.
He consequently directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct by-elections within the constitutionally stipulated timeframe.
“In compliance with constitutional provisions, INEC is hereby mandated to conduct by-elections to fill these vacancies within the stipulated timeframe, which is approximately 30 days from the date of this declaration,” Akpabio said.
He also paid tribute to the deceased lawmakers, offering prayers for the repose of their souls.
“May the souls of our departed colleagues rest in perfect peace,” he added.
The declaration sets in motion the process for electoral contests in the three senatorial districts, as political parties are expected to begin preparations for the by-elections once officially scheduled by INEC.
Meanwhile, the Senate has adjourned plenary until April 21 to observe the Easter break.
