Reps hold valedictory session in honour of Ghali Na’Abba

The house of representatives is currently holding a valedictory session in honour of Ghali Umar Na’Abba.

Na’Abba, a former speaker of the house of representatives, died in December at the age of 65. 

He was speaker of the green chamber, as a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), from 1999 to 2003.

Delivering his address at the valedictory session, Tajudeen Abbas, speaker of the house, described Na’Abba as an “extraordinary statesman and a patriot”.

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”.

“Speaker after speaker at this session will testify to his courage, boldness, dedication to the principles of democracy, exemplary leadership and steadfast commitment to the time-honoured principles of separation of powers,” Abbas said.

“Of all his qualities, what stands out the most is his simplicity, austerity, contentment and rare honesty. He was a modest and deeply religious man who gave the last full measure of devotion to his work and Nigeria.

“He lived a simple life but always with the end in mind. His life is, therefore, a worthy lesson for political office holders of today and generations of politicians to come.”

Also speaking, Femi Gbajabiamila, chief of staff to President Bola Tinubu, said Na’Abba was a “great man, talented public servant and dedicated politician”.

Gbajabiamila, who was the speaker of the 9th assembly, said Na’Abba lived a good life of service and his passing is a great loss to the nation.

Gbajabiamila said when he was speaker, he usually consulted Na’Abba on how to lead the parliament.

“This advice saw me through as a speaker,” Gbajabiamila said.

Those in attendance include Aminu Masari, former governor of Katsina and ex-speaker of the house of representatives; and Emeka Ihedioha, former deputy speaker of the green chamber.

Others are Hadi Sirika, former minister of aviation and former member of the house of representatives; and Lasun Yusuf, ex-deputy speaker of the lower legislative chamber.