By Abiola Olawale
President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio on Wednesday made an official announcement declaring the seat for the Edo Central Senatorial District of Edo State at the Senate as officially vacant.
The decision came after Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State won the governorship election of his state and was sworn in.
The New Diplomat reports that Okpebholo, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), had represented the district until his swearing-in as governor in November.
The motion to declare the seat vacant was moved by the Senate’s Minority Leader, Abba Moro.
Moro called on the Senate President to declare the seat vacant so that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) can organize a by-election to fill the position.
Meanwhile, the Senate on Wednesday honoured Okpebholo with a valedictory session.
Lawmakers expressed their heartfelt joy at the news of Okpebholo’s ascension to the role of Governor of Edo State.
While they celebrated his achievements, there was a palpable sense of mixed emotions as they acknowledged how much they would miss his presence in the Senate. They took turns eulogizing Okpebholo, highlighting his admirable qualities.
In his speech, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, described the Governor as a humble person and a man of few words, but full of action. He noted that the people of Edo State elected him “because he’s someone who has people’s interest at heart.”
Senator Adams Oshiomhole, in his remarks, pointed out that the Governor has made a great mark within his one year of being a senator and a short period as the Governor.
While pointing out that Okpebholo was the first person to be elected as Senator by the people of his senatorial district and, within a year, became a Governor through the massive support of the people of the State, he added that he is a very humble man whose humility is infectious.
“In 30 days, Edo people knew that a new Governor was in town. He is very humble, intelligent, active, and committed,” he said.
