Members of Nigeria’s 10th Senate have thrown their weight behind Senate President Godswill Akpabio and his deputy, Barau Jibrin, for another term, signalling a preference for continuity ahead of the 2027 National Assembly elections.
The lawmakers made their position known during Thursday’s plenary, where they adopted a motion supporting the return of the current Senate leadership and other principal officers who successfully secure re-election to the legislature.
The motion was moved by Senate Whip Tahir Monguno under Order 41 and seconded by Cyril Fasuyi, who represents Ekiti North. Senators present expressed their support through a voice vote presided over by Akpabio.
Under the resolution, Akpabio would retain the Senate presidency, while Barau would continue as deputy Senate president, provided both lawmakers win their seats in the January 16, 2027, National Assembly elections. Other principal officers would also be eligible to return if re-elected.
The endorsement comes as political discussions surrounding the next Senate leadership gather momentum, with Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma and former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole reportedly linked to possible bids for the Senate presidency.
Akpabio had previously received political backing amid speculation about potential challengers. Thursday’s resolution further strengthens the public show of support for his leadership among senators who participated in the sitting.
However, the outcome of the voice vote was not accompanied by a numerical breakdown, leaving the precise level of support unclear. Senator Ali Ndume of Borno South, when approached after plenary, said he was absent from the chamber when the motion was adopted.
Opposition lawmakers who attended the sitting had not publicly stated their positions on the endorsement as of the time of reporting.
Although the declaration signals the preference of the senators who supported the motion, it does not settle the 2027 leadership contest. The next Senate must first emerge from the elections, after which its members will determine who occupies the chamber’s principal offices.
