‘No Vacancy’ — Senators Endorse Akpabio For 11th Assembly Senate Presidency

Some Nigerian senators have endorsed Senate President Godswill Akpabio for another term in the 11th National Assembly, declaring that there is “no vacancy” in the office ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The declaration was made during plenary on Thursday, October 15, 2026, following renewed political discussions about the leadership of the Senate after the next elections.

Senate Chief Whip Tahir Monguno, who represents Borno North Senatorial District, expressed confidence that most serving senators would return to the chamber after the elections.

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

He extended the declaration to the office of the Deputy Senate President and other principal officers of the Senate, suggesting that the current leadership should retain their positions if they secure re-election.

Senator Cyril Fasuyi, representing Ekiti North Senatorial District, supported the position, describing Akpabio as the occupant of the Senate presidency in the incoming assembly.

“I hereby support the motion ably moved by Senator Monguno that the seat of the Senate President in the 11th Assembly is not open to any contest. It is already occupied by Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio,” Fasuyi said.

Akpabio subsequently asked senators whether the declaration reflected the general position of the chamber. Those supporting it responded with an audible “aye”, while no audible opposition was recorded when he called for opposing voices.

“I think that settles it,” Akpabio said.

The development followed controversy over comments Akpabio made during Tuesday’s debate on a bill seeking to decriminalise attempted suicide and establish a framework for suicide prevention and support for survivors.

His remarks attracted criticism from some Nigerians, who accused him of making comments that could be interpreted as disparaging towards Muslims. Akpabio later argued that his contributions during legislative debates had been taken out of context and urged commentators to avoid misrepresenting proceedings in the chamber.

The endorsement comes as political activities gradually intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections. However, the senators’ declaration does not itself guarantee Akpabio’s return as Senate President.

The composition of the 11th National Assembly will depend on the outcome of the elections, while the selection of its presiding officers will take place after the new Senate is constituted.

Akpabio, who represents Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District, became Senate President in June 2023 following the inauguration of the 10th National Assembly.

The latest declaration signals support from some lawmakers for his continued leadership, although the final outcome will depend on electoral results and the decisions of senators in the next assembly.