…By Dorcas Funmi for TDPel Media.
In a surprising turn of events, at least six senators from the South-South region of the country declined to vote for Godswill Akpabio, the former Akwa Ibom State Governor, who was vying for the position of the 10th Senate President.
This move defied the endorsement of Akpabio by the All Progressive Congress (APC), which had designated the senate presidency to the south-south region.
Opposition within the Party:
The APC’s decision to anoint Akpabio as the candidate for the senate presidency faced significant opposition from members within the party.
As the upper chamber of the assembly convened for its inaugural session, Akpabio from the South-South and Abdul’Aziz Yari from the North-West were nominated for the position.
However, it was revealed through a public document that certain senators from Akpabio’s geopolitical zone voted against him.
Voting Results:
The document disclosed that the senators from Akpabio’s region opted to vote for Yari from the North-West instead.
Despite this, Akpabio emerged as the victor in the election, securing 63 votes, while Senator Yari received 46 votes.
Senators Opposing Akpabio:
The public document unveiled the identities of the senators who voted against Akpabio.
Two senators from Bayelsa State, three from Delta State, and one from Edo State were among those who opposed Akpabio’s candidacy.
All senators from Delta State, including Senators Nwoko Ned, Dafinone Omueya, and Joel Onowakpo, voted against Akpabio.
Similarly, Senators Benson Friday and Dickson Seriake from Bayelsa State cast their votes for Yari.
In addition, Okpebolo Monday, the representative of the Edo Central Senatorial district, voted against Akpabio.
Conclusion:
Godswill Akpabio assumed the position of Senate President after succeeding Ahmad Lawan, who led the 9th Senate.
Akpabio’s victory was supported by Ovie Omo-Agege, who served as the Deputy Senate President.
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