Breaking: Senate Shuts Down Plenary To Allow Lawmakers Join Party Primaries

The decision was announced during Tuesday’s sitting by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who said many senators would be returning to their constituencies for the nomination process, which could affect attendance in the chamber.

According to Akpabio, the temporary suspension is necessary due to the expected drop in participation, although Senate committees will continue their work while plenary is on hold.

He said the Senate intends to conclude ongoing legislative business before Thursday to allow members leave Abuja and take part in their parties’ activities, while urging lawmakers to use the remaining days to wrap up important matters.

Akpabio also called on political parties to align their schedules in a way that allows lawmakers balance their legislative responsibilities with participation in primaries, warning that overlapping activities could affect representation in the chamber.

Suspending plenary during party primaries has long been a common practice in the National Assembly, enabling legislators to participate in the process of selecting candidates for their respective parties.