Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila has dissolved the 9th Assembly of the House of Representatives.
POLITICS NIGERIA reports that the valedictory session commenced with a motion moved by Rep. Alhassan Ado-Doguwa, the Majority Leader of the House, and seconded by Rep. Ndudi Elumelu, the Minority Leader.
In his heartfelt valedictory speech, Speaker Gbajabiamila expressed his deep appreciation to his colleagues, stating, “I will miss all of you and miss this house. You have enriched my life, and I cannot express how much you have impacted the house.”
Gbajabiamila highlighted the collective efforts made by members of the assembly in the pursuit of nation-building, emphasising their commitment to ensuring that the dreams of Nigeria’s founding fathers would not perish.
“We have come, we have seen, and while we are yet to conquer, my enthusiasm to serve remained undiminished,” he proclaimed.
The Speaker expressed his gratitude for the privilege of serving the country, extending thanks to his constituency and colleagues for their support throughout his tenure.
Reflecting on his time in office, Gbajabiamila acknowledged the significant transformation within the House, describing it as unprecedented. He emphasised the speed at which change occurred over the past four years.
“We have worked to take advantage of social and economic transformations that benefit us; we have left our mark on every sector of our national life,” he proudly declared.
The Speaker highlighted the House’s achievement in introducing discipline to the Appropriation Act, ensuring that it commences from January to December each year.
During the session, Rep. Julius Ihovhre (APC-Edo) expressed his enduring appreciation for the friendships forged in the 9th assembly, emphasising the lasting nature of these relationships. He commended the Speaker for skillfully leading the House, managing a diverse group of people with precision.
“As the Chief of Staff to the President in your new role, the challenges you will face are greater, and we implore you not to abandon the spirit of excellence,” Ihovhre stated.
He stressed the need for a leader with a sense of purpose in Nigeria and called upon Gbajabiamila to prioritise attention to basic education within the Federal Government.
Adding to the sentiments expressed, Rep. Luke Onofionk (PDP-Akwa-Ibom) commended the lasting relationships formed among members and expressed gratitude to his constituency for granting him the privilege to serve.
He applauded the Speaker for accommodating members and allowing new voices to be heard, noting Gbajabiamila’s gentleness in handling their errors. Onofiong urged the House to take the judiciary seriously, advocating for a salary review.
Rep. Yusuf Gadgi (APC-Plateau) emphasised the importance of forgiveness among members, urging his colleagues to let go of grievances. Despite some grumbling in response to his plea, Gadgi remained undeterred, emphasising the necessity of forgiveness for the greater good.
Former speakers, notable House leaders, including Gali Na’abba, Patricia Etteh, Mulikat Akande, and former clerks of the National Assembly, attended the valedictory session.
