RismadarVoice Reporters
October 15, 2026
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has received public backing from some senators to retain his position in the 11th National Assembly, with lawmakers declaring that there would be no vacancy in the office when the next Senate is inaugurated in 2027.
The declarations were made during Thursday’s plenary by Senate Chief Whip Tahir Monguno and Senator Cyril Fasuyi, who expressed confidence in Akpabio’s continued leadership.
Monguno, who represents Borno North Senatorial District, said he expected a majority of serving senators to secure re-election in 2027, allowing the current Senate leadership to continue.
He declared that the position of Senate President would remain occupied and extended the same position to the Deputy Senate President and other principal officers.
Fasuyi, representing Ekiti North Senatorial District, supported Monguno’s position, expressing confidence that Akpabio would retain the Senate presidency in the next Assembly.
According to Fasuyi, the office should remain with Akpabio, whom he publicly endorsed for another term.
Following the endorsements, Akpabio sought the views of other senators by putting the matter to a voice vote.
Lawmakers responded affirmatively when asked whether they supported the position, while no audible opposition was recorded.
Reacting to the response, Akpabio said, “I think that settles it.”
The exchange demonstrated support for Akpabio among senators present at the sitting, although it did not constitute a formal election or legally determine the leadership of the next National Assembly.
Under Nigeria’s constitutional arrangements, the Senate President is elected by members of the Senate from among themselves.
Consequently, Akpabio’s continuation in office would depend on his return to the Senate after the 2027 general elections and his subsequent election by members of the 11th Senate.
The endorsements come ahead of the political activities and legislative leadership negotiations expected to accompany the transition to the next National Assembly.
While Monguno and Fasuyi have publicly declared their support, the final decision on the Senate presidency will rest with the senators elected to serve in the 11th National Assembly.
