Senate President Godswill Akpabio has declared Edo state Governor, Monday Okpebholo’s seat at the upper legislative chamber vacant.
Okpebholo was the senator representing Edo central until his victory in Edo 2024 Governorship election.
Akpabio declared Okpebholo’s seat vacant during a valedictory session in his honor on Wednesday.
The development followed a request by Abba Moro, the minority leader of the upper house of assembly.
The Senate President asked Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a by-election to fill the seat.
He said, “So in line with your letter and the Constitution, the seat of Edo central central senatorial district is hereby declared vacant.”
Moro had earlier premised his request on paragraph D of section 68 of the constitution.
He said, “This vacancy has become necessary following Senator Monday Okpebholo’s inauguration as governor of Edo State, and in accordance with the Constitution, his seat is now deemed vacant, and we invite you to declare.”