President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, on Tuesday declared three senatorial seats vacant following the deaths of members of the Red Chamber, paving the way for fresh elections in the affected constituencies.
The declaration, made during plenary, was said to be in line with constitutional provisions and the imperative to sustain representation for the impacted districts.
Akpabio disclosed that the vacancies would be formally communicated to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to enable the conduct of bye-elections.
“In line with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended, I hereby declare vacant the following senatorial seats,” he said.
The affected constituencies include Enugu North Senatorial District, Nasarawa North Senatorial District, and Rivers South East Senatorial District.
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Akpabio noted that the action became necessary in the wake of the lawmakers’ demise, stressing that the Senate must ensure that constituents are not left without representation.
He urged the electoral body to conduct midterm elections to fill the vacancies within90 days “in line with due process,” adding that the Senate remains committed to upholding democratic principles.
Akpabio also paid tribute to the deceased lawmakers, praying for the repose of their souls.
“For those who have departed, we pray that their souls rest in perfect peace,” he said.
