Akpabio swears in 2 newly elected senators

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, on Wednesday, administered the oath of office to two newly elected lawmakers who will now represent Edo Central and Anambra South Senatorial Districts in the National Assembly.

Joseph Ikpea of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Emmanuel Nwachukwu of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) officially took their oaths of allegiance at about 11:51 a.m. during plenary on the Senate floor.

The brief swearing-in ceremony was conducted by the Acting Clerk of the Senate, Emmanuel Odo, marking the formal induction of the two senators into the 10th National Assembly.

Ikpea emerged victorious in the recent Edo Central senatorial by-election, while Nwachukwu won the Anambra South contest.

Both seats became vacant following a resignation by the former occupant of Edo Centeal seat, Monday Okpebholo, to contest the State governorship seat and the death of the Senator representing Anambra South, late Ifeanyi Ubah.

In his remarks, Akpabio described their election as a solemn call to serve the nation beyond partisan lines.

“Today, you have been called to national duty,” he said. “You are no longer senators of your political parties; you are senators of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

The Senate President also assured the new lawmakers of the full support of their colleagues as they adjust to their legislative roles.

“Your colleagues who have been here will continue to assist you, so you will get used to the nuances of lawmaking,” Akpabio stated. “Congratulations again, and once again, welcome.”

The Senate later resumed legislative business with the new members seated on designated seats in the red chamber.