The All Progressives Congress (APC) has further strengthened its majority in the Senate following the swearing-in of four newly elected senators after recent bye-elections conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
With the inauguration of the lawmakers, the ruling party now controls 88 of the 109 seats in the upper legislative chamber, further consolidating its dominance in the National Assembly.
The newly inaugurated senators are Asogwa Israel, representing Enugu North; Danladi Envulu-Anza of Nasarawa North; and Dayo Faduyile of Ondo South, all elected under the platform of the APC.
Also sworn in was Olaka Nwogu of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who represents Rivers South-East Senatorial District.
Administering the oath of office, Senate President Godswill Akpabio congratulated the lawmakers on their election and urged them to study the Senate Standing Orders and parliamentary procedures to ensure effective participation in legislative activities.
Following the latest development, the Senate is now composed of 88 APC senators, nine from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), five from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), four from the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), one each from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Labour Party (LP), and Accord Party.
Welcoming the new members, Akpabio described the Senate as a distinguished institution and encouraged them to carry out their responsibilities with discipline while respecting the chamber’s established rules.
He reminded the lawmakers that the Senate Standing Orders and the Constitution provided to them are essential working documents that should guide their conduct and legislative duties.
Akpabio also advised the senators to familiarise themselves with the rules governing debates, motions, and parliamentary proceedings, stressing that adherence to due process is vital for meaningful legislative contributions.
He further noted that decisions made by the presiding officer are based strictly on the Senate’s rules and should not be interpreted as personal actions against any member.
