Eulogies pour from ex-Speakers as Reps hold valedictory session for Na’Abba

The House of Representatives, yesterday, held a special valedictory session in honour of former Speaker, Ghali Na’abba, who died on December 27, 2023 at the age of 65.

He was Speaker of the green chamber on the ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from 1999 to 2003.

Those in attendance at the valedictory session include Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas; ex-Speaker and former governor of Katsina State, Aminu Masari; ex-Deputy Speaker and former governor of Imo State, Emeka Ihedioha; ex-Deputy Speaker, Yusuf Lasun; and former aviation minister, Hadi Sirika.

The lawmakers eulogised the late speaker and condoled with his friends and family.
In his tribute, Abbas said: “Na’Abba left an indelible mark on our nation’s democratic journey and will be remembered as one of the titans of our democracy.”

He described the former speaker as a modest and deeply religious man, who gave the last full measure of devotion to his work and Nigeria.

Abbas said Na’abba lived a simple life, but always with the end in mind, adding that his life was, therefore, a worthy lesson for political office holders of today and generations to come.

“While this is a moment of grief and national mourning, it is equally a time for sober reflection and celebration of his unblemished public service record and enduring legacy. At a more personal level, I am humbled by the enormity of his contributions and inspired by the purity of his vision.

“As we reflect on his life, we are reminded of the enduring strength of our democracy and the pivotal role of the legislature in that regard,” the Speaker said.

He noted that though the country’s democracy was designed on the principle of separation of powers, the House would continue to work closely with the executive arm to address the multifaceted challenges facing the nation.

Abbas pledged that the House would expedite the passage of critical legislation to empower the executive and support the President in tackling the nation’s economic challenges.

Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, said Na’Abba was a “great man, talented public servant and dedicated politician.”

Gbajabiamila, who was the Speaker of the 9th National Assembly, said Na’Abba lived a good life of service and described his passing as great loss to the nation.

He added that when he was Speaker, his constant consultation of Na’Abba on how to lead the parliament saw him through.