National Assembly Halts Plenary Sessions to Honour Late Former President
National Assembly Halts Plenary Sessions to Honour Late Former President
The National Assembly has suspended all legislative proceedings in honour of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on Sunday in London at the age of 82.
In a statement signed by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, both the Senate President and the Speaker of the House of Representatives directed that plenary sessions and all legislative activities be put on hold until Tuesday, July 22.
The move is part of efforts to pay tribute to Buhari’s enduring legacy of integrity and committed national service. Lawmakers have also been urged to adjust their schedules to enable full participation in the burial rites of the late president.
The leadership of the National Assembly extended its condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Buhari family, the government and people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians.
Meanwhile, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele paid tribute to both former President Buhari and the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, describing them as unwavering advocates for national unity and moral leadership.
In a statement issued Monday in Abuja, Bamidele noted that the passing of Buhari (82) and Oba Adetona (91)—both on July 13—marked the end of an era, as the country mourns two prominent figures in Nigeria’s political and traditional leadership.
He commended Buhari for his legacy of discipline, integrity, and pursuit of justice, spanning from his time as Military Head of State (1984–1985) to his civilian presidency (2015–2023). Bamidele also highlighted Buhari’s pivotal role in reshaping Nigeria’s political landscape through the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC), which secured victory in the 2015 general elections.
Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, speaking on behalf of the Senate and the South-West caucus, extended heartfelt condolences to former First Lady Aisha Buhari, the Buhari family, the Daura Emirate, the Katsina State government, and President Bola Tinubu.
Reflecting on the life of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, Bamidele described his 65-year reign (1960–2025) as a period marked by inclusive leadership, peace-building, and unwavering dedication to the people. He praised the monarch’s non-partisan approach and his ability to foster unity across religious and ethnic divides.
The senator also offered his sympathies to the Anikilaya Ruling House, the people of Ijebuland, and the Ogun State government, acknowledging the Oba’s invaluable contributions to Nigeria’s national development.
Similarly, the House of Representatives joined in mourning the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as “a towering figure in Nigeria’s history.”
In a statement signed by House spokesperson Akin Rotimi, lawmakers paid tribute to Buhari’s rare distinction as both a former Military Head of State (1983–1985) and a two-term democratically elected President (2015–2023).
“His passing signals the end of an era defined by discipline, devoted national service, and a steadfast commitment to Nigeria’s democratic evolution,” the statement noted.
