The Ovia North-East/Ovia South-West federal constituency seat in Edo State, previously occupied by Dennis Idahosa, has officially been declared vacant. This announcement follows Idahosa’s election and swearing-in as the Deputy Governor of Edo State.
The declaration was made on Wednesday by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abass. The development arose after the House Majority Leader, Hon. Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, formally requested the declaration of the seat as vacant to facilitate the process of electing a new representative.
In his communication to the House, Ihonvbere stated: “Now that the member representing Ovia North-East/Ovia South-West federal constituency of Edo State has been elected and sworn in as the Deputy Governor of the State, his seat should be declared vacant.”
The Speaker responded by acknowledging the request during plenary. After reading Ihonvbere’s letter, Rep. Abass confirmed the vacancy, saying: “Honourable colleagues, with this announcement, it is my pleasure to announce that the seat of Ovia North-East/Ovia South-West federal constituency is, hereby, declared vacant.”
The declaration paves the way for a by-election to be conducted, ensuring that the people of Ovia North-East/Ovia South-West federal constituency gain a new representative in the House of Representatives. This procedural step is in line with constitutional requirements, ensuring representation for the constituency following the elevation of its former member to the position of Deputy Governor in Edo State.
With this declaration, preparations for the by-election are expected to commence soon.
