Nigeria mourns the loss of a true democrat, Akpabio Mourns NaÁbba
The death of Rt. Hon. Ghali Umar Na’Abba, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, has left Senator Godswill Akpabio, the Senate President and Chairman of the National Assembly, heartbroken.
Akpabio praised Na’Abba, who passed away on Wednesday morning in Abuja at 65, as ‘a true Democrat.’
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In a statement issued by his media aide, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, Akpabio said the nation had lost a great leader at a critical time.
The statement said: “I was shocked and saddened to learn of the demise of the second speaker of the 4th House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ghali Umar Na’Ábba, who died in the early hours of Wednesday, December 27, 2023, in Abuja. I extend my deepest condolences to his family and the entire National Assembly”.
He hailed the former speaker as a courageous and selfless politician, a patriot, and a true democrat who gave up his personal ambition to resist tyranny and secure the independence of the Legislature.
“I mourn the loss of Rt. Hon. Ghali Umar Na’Abba, a brave and selfless politician, a patriot, and a true democrat who fought for the independence of the Legislature and the advancement of the nation.
“I acknowledge that the cordial relationship between the Legislature and the Executive today is a result of the noble legacy of leaders like Na’Abba who worked hard to establish authentic representative democracy in the country.
“I remember with fondness how Rt. Hon. Na’Abba stood firm against the encroachment of the Executive and defended the interests of the Nigerian people by ensuring that democracy was upheld.
“We, at the National Assembly and indeed, all Nigerians who cherish true democratic values, respect and honour you for your integrity and commitment.
“As you journey to the hereafter, I pray that Allah will forgive your sins and grant you Aljannah Firdaus. Rest in peace, Rt. Hon. Ghali Umar NaÁbba”.