Senate Shake-Up: Akpabio Officially Swears In Two Fresh Lawmakers

The Senate, under the leadership of President Godswill Akpabio, on Wednesday officially welcomed two newly elected lawmakers, Joseph Ikpea and Emmanuel Nwachukwu, representing Edo Central and Anambra South senatorial districts, respectively.

The brief swearing-in ceremony took place during plenary at the National Assembly in Abuja, with the Clerk of the Senate, Emmanuel Ojo, administering the oaths of office and allegiance.

The new senators emerged from recent by-elections conducted to fill two vacant seats. One had been vacated by Monday Okpebholo following his election as Governor of Edo State, while the other became vacant after the death of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah in July 2024.

With their inauguration, the Senate now returns to its full complement of 109 members.

Before proceedings began, the Senate temporarily suspended its standing rules to allow family members, guests, and dignitaries into the chamber to witness the event. The gallery was packed with relatives, friends, and political allies of the two lawmakers.

Among those in attendance were former Delta State Governor James Ibori and former Edo State Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu, now Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Sports, alongside several notable politicians from Edo and Anambra states.

In his address, Senate President Akpabio congratulated Ikpea and Nwachukwu on their election victories and urged them to study the Senate’s Standing Orders to ensure effective participation in legislative activities.

“I warmly welcome our new colleagues to the red chamber. I encourage you to acquaint yourselves with our rules, abide by them, and contribute meaningfully to the progress of your constituencies and the nation,” Akpabio said.

He further reaffirmed the Senate’s commitment to democracy, inclusiveness, and cooperation across party lines.