From Paul Orude, Bauchi
Former President of the Senate Bukola Saraki has demonstrated great leadership and courage which resulted in the unprecedented performance of the 8th Assembly.
This was the view of Yakubu Dogara, the immediate past Speaker of the House of Representatives.
In a message celebrating Saraki on his 60th birthday anniversary, Dogara commended Saraki’s partnership in steering the affairs of the 8th Assembly.
“Yours have been 60 years of meritorious service to our fatherland as exemplified by your consistent display of unwavering commitment to the unity, peace and progress of Nigeria and particularly, the independence of the legislature,” Dogara stated in a tribute to Saraki.
“In the four years you held sway as President of the Senate, you demonstrated great courage and patriotism in steering the affairs of the Senate. Your partnership was a legendary epic which by popular consensus made the 8th NASS the most productive in Nigeria’s history.
“As you step into the sexagenarian club today, I wish to join your teeming well-wishers in praying to Almighty God to grant you more wisdom and sound health to continue to serve the nation in the years ahead.”
Both Saraki and Dogara were elected Senate President and Speaker on June 6, 2015, after they rebelled against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC’s) endorsement of other candidates.
At the expiration of their tenure in June 2019, the two Chambers passed bills and resolutions that surpass those of previous Assemblies.