Senate President Godswill Akpabio, on Wednesday, swore in two newly elected Senators to occupy the hitherto vacant seats of Edo Central and Anambra South Senatorial Districts in the Senate.
Joseph Ikpea of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Emmanuel Nwachukwu of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) took the oath of allegiance at about 11:51a.m. on the Senate floor.
The swearing-in formalities were conducted by the Acting Clerk of the Senate, Emmanuel Odo.
Ikpea emerged victorious in the recent Edo Central senatorial by-election, while Nwachukwu won the Anambra South contest.
Both seats became vacant following a resignation by the former occupant of Edo Centeal seat, Monday Okpebholo, to contest the State governorship seat and the death of the Senator representing Anambra South, late Ifeanyi Ubah.
In his remarks, Akpabio described their election as a solemn call to serve the nation beyond partisan lines.
“Today, you have been called to national duty,” he said. “You are no longer senators of your political parties; you are senators of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
The Senate President also assured the new lawmakers of the full support of their colleagues as they adjust to their legislative roles.
“Your colleagues who have been here will continue to assist you, so you will get used to the nuances of lawmaking,” Akpabio stated. “Congratulations again, and once again, welcome.”
The Senate later resumed legislative business with the new members seated on designated seats in the red chamber.
