The Senate on Wednesday welcomed four new lawmakers into its ranks as Senate President Godswill Akpabio administered the oath of office to senators elected in recent by-elections conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The newly inaugurated senators are Danladi Halilu Envulu-Anza of the All Progressives Congress (APC), representing Nasarawa North; Ikeje Asogwa of the APC, representing Enugu North; Olaka Nwogu of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), representing Rivers South; and Francis Faduyile of the APC, representing Ondo South.
The lawmakers emerged through separate by-elections conducted to fill vacancies created by death and appointment.
Asogwa was elected to represent Enugu North following the death of Senator Okey Ezea in November 2025, while Nwogu replaced the late Senator Barry Mpigi, who died in February.
Faduyile secured the Ondo South seat after the appointment of former Senator Jimoh Ibrahim as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, while Envulu-Anza was elected to succeed the late Senator Godiya Akwashiki.
Ahead of the inauguration, the Senate suspended Order 12 of its Standing Rules to allow family members, supporters and other distinguished guests into the chamber for the swearing-in ceremony.
The decision followed a motion moved by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele and seconded by Minority Leader Abba Moro, after which Akpabio directed the Sergeant-at-Arms to usher the senators-elect and their guests into the chamber.
Welcoming the lawmakers, the Senate President described their inauguration as a significant milestone and reminded them of the enormous responsibility that comes with membership of the upper legislative chamber.
“Today, you join this elite club, the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, with a responsibility to serve the Nigerian people,” Akpabio said.
The Clerk of the Senate subsequently administered the Oath of Allegiance in line with constitutional provisions before the newly elected lawmakers formally took their seats.
Akpabio also acknowledged the presence of political leaders, traditional rulers, family members and supporters who witnessed the ceremony, expressing appreciation for their attendance.
He urged the new senators to carry out their legislative responsibilities with commitment, diligence and patriotism in the service of the nation.
The Senate President further congratulated the political parties that won the by-elections and offered prayers for the repose of the souls of the departed lawmakers whose deaths necessitated the fresh polls.
The inauguration restores full representation to the affected senatorial districts and strengthens the composition of the 10th Senate as it continues its legislative business.
