From Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja
Speaker of the House of Representatives Abbas Tajudeen has expressed dismay over the death of former Speaker of the House Ghali Umar Na’Abba.
Abbas, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Krishi, described the deceased former Speaker as lawmaker par excellence and patriot, who was committed to service of the country.
Na’Abba, represented Kano Municipal Federal Constituency of Kano State in the 4th assembly, became speaker of the House in 1999, following the resignation of Salisu Buhari .
Abbas, while recalling with nostalgia, how Na’Abba had an eventful tenure as the Speaker of the 4th House, noted that his legislative exploits shaped Nigeria’s democracy. He added that the late lawmaker was one of the finest parliamentarian to have served in the National Assembly.
According to him, the ex-Speaker, during his tenure brought unity and stability to the House, leading to some landmark decisions in furtherance of the country’s democratic journey.
“Rt Hon Ghali Na’Abba was a special breed as a lawmaker. He showed leadership as Speaker of the 4th House. He inspired members of the House under his leadership in many ways. Furthermore, he championed the first and only successful veto of a sitting president, leading to the establishment of the NDDC.
“Long after his exit from the parliament, he remained actively, politically, and continued to encourage and motivate us all. He will be sorely missed.
“Indeed, we have lost a great Nigerian; a legislative pillar. My heart goes out to the Na’Abba family. My prayers are with them at this moment of grief,” the Speaker said.
Abbas, while commiserating with the people and the government of Kano State, prayed to Allah to grant the former speaker Jannatul Firdaus.