A socio-political group, Esan Professionals for Progress, has written to the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, urging him to declare Senator Monday Okpebholo’s seat vacant due to his prolonged absence from the Red Chamber.
The group, led by Kingsley Akhigbe, stated that Senator Okpebholo, who represents Edo Central Senatorial District, has been absent for over five months.
The group alleged that Okpebholo has neglected his legislative duties and the representation of his constituents, while using his governorship ambition as an excuse, Daily Nigerian reported on Wednesday, August 28.
This absence, according to the group, has had a detrimental impact on his constituents, leaving them without a voice to address their concerns.
Akhigbe cited the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as Amended), which mandates that a Senator must sit for at least 180 days in a calendar year, noting that Senator Okpebholoâs absence exceeds one-third of this period, rendering him ineligible to continue holding his seat.
He however urged the Senate President Akpabio to declare the seat vacant, to enable the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) conduct a by-election, thereby providing the people of Edo Central Senatorial District the representation they deserve.
The petition reads:
Meanwhile, TimesNow.com.ng reported that in the latest API poll, Dr. Asue Ighodalo of the PDP leads the Edo state governorship race, with 60% of decided voters supporting him.
The poll revealed that 72% of respondents have chosen a candidate, with 60% favouring Ighodalo.
Despite Ighodalo’s lead, the API report suggests the election could turn into a two-horse race between PDP and APC.
Source: TimesNow.com.ng
