President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, Tuesday, declared three senatorial seats vacant following the demise of their occupants.
That was as the senator for Niger South, Peter Jiya, defected from Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to All Progressives Congress (APC), further shifting political dynamics in the National Assembly.
Speaking during the resumption of plenary, Akpabio listed the vacant seats as Enugu North, Nasarawa North, and Rivers South East senatorial districts.
He emphasised that the action was mandated by the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and was necessary to ensure continued representation for the affected constituencies.
Akpabio said, “In line with the constitution, I hereby declare vacant the following senatorial seats. We urge the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct bye-elections within 90 days in accordance with due process.”
The senate president also paid tribute to the late lawmakers, praying for the repose of their souls.
“For those who have departed, we pray that their souls rest in perfect peace,” he said, highlighting the upper chamber’s commitment to upholding democratic principles even amid loss.
Meanwhile, Senate’s political landscape experienced further shifts as Jiya, representing Niger South Senatorial District, officially resigned from PDP and joined APC.
His defection was announced by Akpabio.
In his letter, Jiya cited “ongoing quarrels and significant divisions within the PDP” as reasons for his move, while expressing gratitude to his former party for the opportunity to serve the nation.
“I remain grateful and wish the party well in the future, especially if it is able to resolve its internal challenges,” he wrote.
Jiya’s defection shifts the balance of power in the senate further in favour of APC.
The current composition of the 109-member chamber now stands at APC 90, ADC 9, PDP 4, APGA 1, NDC 1, NNPP 1, and Accord 1, with three seats vacant and awaiting bye-elections.
The senate president, at the close of plenary, adjourned sitting to April 21 to enable the Christian senators celebrate Easter.
Sunday Aborisade
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