Senate Fails To Declare Kalu’s Seat Vacant

The Nigerian Senate has failed to declare the seat of the senator representing Abia North, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, vacant following the court sentence of 12 years imprisonment.

The senate noted that the house would not declare the seat of the chip whip of the red chamber vacant until he has explored all legal options available to him.

The Senate spokesperson, Senator Godiya Akwashik, disclosed this development in Abuja.

It could be recalled that a Federal High Court last week sentenced the former Governor of Abia state to 12 years imprisonment for charges bordering on corruption and embezzlement of public funds.

Akwashiki argued the Nigerian constitution does not allow the arm of the National Assembly to declare the seat of any senator facing trial or convicted by a lower court vacant.

He said “The Senate has no reason to declare his seat vacant. This is not the first time that such a thing would happen.

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“There is no provision in the constitution that says the seat of any senator facing prosecution or convicted at a lower court should be declared vacant.

“He still has the opportunity to appeal the case.”