Cynthia Ezegwu
The Senate on Wednesday officially swore in Joseph Ikpea and Emmanuel Nwachukwu as senators representing Edo Central and Anambra South senatorial districts, respectively.
The swearing-in, which took place during plenary, was presided over by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, while the Clerk of the Senate, Emmanuel Ojo, administered the oaths of office and allegiance.
Their inauguration followed recent by-elections conducted to fill two vacant seats — one previously held by Monday Okpebholo, now Governor of Edo State, and the other by the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, who passed away in July 2024.
Before the ceremony, the Senate temporarily suspended its rules to allow family members and dignitaries into the chamber to witness the event.
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Among those in attendance were former Delta State Governor James Ibori, former Edo State Deputy Governor and current Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Sports Philip Shaibu, and other political figures.
Akpabio, in his brief remarks, congratulated the new senators and urged them to acquaint themselves with the Senate’s standing rules as they commence their legislative duties.
With their swearing-in, the Red Chamber now has its full complement of 109 members.