The Nigerian Senate will suspend its plenary sessions later this week to allow lawmakers take part in political party primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The decision was made known during Tuesday’s sitting by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who said many lawmakers would not be available as they return to their constituencies for the nomination process.

He explained that the temporary break is necessary since attendance in the chamber would drop during the period. Despite the pause in plenary, he said Senate committees will continue carrying out their duties while the main session is on hold.

The Senate plans to complete ongoing legislative work before Thursday so members can leave Abuja and participate in their parties’ activities. Lawmakers were also urged to use the remaining days of the week to conclude important matters before the break begins.

Akpabio also called on political parties to adjust their schedules in a way that allows lawmakers fully engage in both legislative duties and primaries. He noted that if both activities run at the same time, it could affect representation, as lawmakers would be absent from plenary.

It is a common practice in Nigeria’s National Assembly for plenary sessions to be paused during party primaries. This allows legislators to take part in selecting candidates who will represent their parties in various elections.