By Anayo Akwitti
Senators have declared that there is no vacancy in the office of the Senate President ahead of the inauguration of the 11th National Assembly, expressing support for the re-election of the incumbent, Godswill Akpabio.
The declaration followed a motion moved by Senator Monguno and supported by Senator Cyril Fasuyi, who represents Ekiti North Senatorial District.
The lawmakers also extended their position to the office of the Deputy Senate President and other principal officers of the Senate, signalling support for continuity in the leadership of the upper chamber.
Reacting to the development, Akpabio acknowledged the political interests surrounding the Senate leadership but cautioned against interpretations of legislative debates taken out of context.
He urged commentators to focus on the final decisions of the Senate rather than drawing conclusions from discussions during plenary.
The Senate President also defended his position during a recent debate on the possible decriminalisation of suicide, insisting that terrorism should not be associated with any religion.
Akpabio’s remarks came amid calls for responsible public discourse, religious tolerance and a more constructive approach to addressing the country’s security challenges.
The lawmakers stressed the need for greater efforts to tackle insecurity and substance abuse, while urging Nigerians to avoid statements capable of deepening religious divisions.
The declaration comes ahead of the 2027 general elections and the inauguration of the 11th National Assembly, when members of the Senate will elect their presiding officers.
