Senate Pauses Plenary For Party Primaries

The Nigerian Senate is set to suspend its plenary sessions later this week to enable lawmakers participate in their respective political party primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections. According to Ireporter Online, the announcement was made during Tuesday’s sitting by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who noted that a significant number of legislators would be unavailable as they return to their constituencies for the nomination processes.

He stated that the temporary suspension is necessary to address the expected decline in attendance during the period. Despite the halt in plenary, Senate committees are expected to continue their responsibilities, ensuring that legislative activities are not entirely stalled.

The Senate leadership indicated plans to conclude pending legislative business before Thursday, allowing members to depart Abuja in time for their parties’ engagements. Lawmakers were also encouraged to utilise the remaining days of the week to finalise critical assignments ahead of the break.

Akpabio further urged political parties to consider scheduling adjustments that would enable legislators effectively balance their parliamentary duties with participation in primaries. He warned that overlapping timelines could hinder adequate representation in the chamber due to lawmakers’ absence.

It is a longstanding practice within Nigeria’s National Assembly to suspend plenary sessions during party primaries, providing legislators the opportunity to take part in the selection of candidates for upcoming elections.