APC Tightens Grip on Senate as Four New Senators Take Oath, Now Controls 88 Seats

Nigeria's ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has solidified its dominant position in the Senate, now controlling 88 out of the 109 seats. This expansion follows the swearing-in of four newly elected senators who won recent bye-elections conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The new senators include Asogwa Israel, Danladi Envulu-Anza, and Dayo Faduyile, all elected under the APC banner. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) also gained one senator, Olaka Nwogu, representing Rivers South-East Senatorial District.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio welcomed the new members, emphasizing the importance of adhering to Senate rules and parliamentary procedures. He presented them with copies of the Senate Standing Orders and the constitution, urging them to use these documents as essential guides for their legislative activities.

"The two documents presented to you are not meant for your shelves. They are provided so that you can follow proceedings seriously," Akpabio stated, advising the senators to study the rules governing debates and motions. He cautioned against speaking without understanding the procedures, stressing that decisions made by the presiding officer are rule-based and should not be taken personally.

With these additions, the Senate's composition is now: APC (88 seats), African Democratic Congress (ADC) (9 seats), PDP (5 seats), Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) (4 seats), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) (1 seat), Labour Party (1 seat), and Accord (1 seat). Akpabio encouraged the senators to approach their responsibilities with diligence and respect for the established order.

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The two documents presented to you are not meant for your shelves. They are provided so that you can follow proceedings seriously.