‘Senate presidency not vacant’ — Senators endorse Akpabio for another term as Senate president

Some Nigerian senators have endorsed Senate President Godswill Akpabio to retain his position in the 11th National Assembly, declaring that the office is not vacant.

According to TheCable, the endorsement came during Thursday’s plenary following Akpabio’s response to criticism over remarks made during deliberations on the Suicide Prevention Bill.

Senate Chief Whip Tahir Monguno expressed confidence that most lawmakers would return after the 2027 elections.

“Insha Allah, by the grace of God, majority of us are going to make it back to the Senate, and this seat is hereby declared: there is no vacancy. Including the seat of DSP, there is no vacancy — including principal officers,” Monguno said.

Senator Cyril Fasuyi also endorsed Akpabio, insisting that the senate presidency was already occupied.

Akpabio subsequently sought lawmakers’ approval through a voice vote, receiving overwhelming support without audible opposition.

The endorsement followed controversy surrounding Akpabio’s comments about suicide and religion, which critics described as offensive to Muslims. The senate president rejected the accusations.