The Nigerian Senate brought two new members into its ranks during a session presided over by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, on Wednesday.
Joseph Ikpea and Emmanuel Nwachukwu took their oaths, now representing the people of Edo Central and Anambra South senatorial districts, respectively.
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The Clerk of the Senate, Emmanuel Ojo, performed the required duty of administering the oaths of office and allegiance, formally initiating the men into the legislative body.
This ceremony was necessary to fill vacancies that arose from recent political shifts.
The seat for Edo Central became available after the previous occupant, Monday Okpebholo, was elected Governor of Edo State.
In Anambra South, the vacancy was created by the unfortunate death of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah in July 2024.
Before the proceedings began, the Senate temporarily set aside its usual operating procedures to permit the friends, family, and other important guests of the incoming senators to observe the momentous occasion from within the chamber.
Notable attendees included high-profile political figures such as former Delta State Governor James Ibori and former Edo State Deputy Governor Philip Shuaibu, who is also the Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Sports.
Following the ceremony, Akpabio offered a piece of advice to the new members, urging them to thoroughly familiarize themselves with and adhere to the Senate’s standing rules.
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With the formal inclusion of Senators Ikpea and Nwachukwu, the legislative body is now back to its maximum capacity of 109 members.
