Nigeria witnesses longest unbroken democracy, legislative practice — NASS Spokesmen

The Spokesmen of the Senate and House of Representatives on Tuesday expressed excitement as the country celebrates 25 years of unbroken legislative practice.

The Senate Spokesman, Senator Yemi Adaramodu and Chairman, House Committee on Media & Public Affairs, Hon. Akin Rotimi, expressed their delight via a joint statement issued to commemorate the country’s return to civilian rule.

In commemoration of the feat, the 10th Assembly will on Wednesday, 29th May, 2024 hold a joint session to mark the Silver Jubilee of the Fourth Republic.

“The National Assembly will hold a Joint Sitting this week to commemorate 25 years of unbroken democracy and legislative practice in Nigeria.

“This significant milestone will be marked by a series of events scheduled to begin at 10:00 am on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, in the Green Chamber, House of Representatives Building, National Assembly Complex, Abuja.

“This development was conveyed to lawmakers of both chambers via an advisory from the National Assembly Management on Monday.

“Highlights of the event include a keynote speech by H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. It would also feature commemorative lectures on the theme *”25 Years of the National Assembly: Lessons & Opportunities”* by Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, CFR (Speaker, 9th House of Representatives); Senator (Dr.) David A.B. Mark, GCON (President of the 6th & 7th Senate); and Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, GCFR (Former Head of State).

“Following the joint sitting, the event will proceed with the unveiling and commissioning of the National Assembly Library Complex, named the Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu Building. A tour of the new facility will also be conducted.

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“Nigeria’s Fourth Republic was birthed on May 29, 1999, following the country’s return to civilian rule. Nigeria’s political trajectory has seen many periods of military intervention, and the period since 1999 has been the longest of unbroken legislative practice.

“The country’s democracy has matured, witnessing six electoral cycles, including an alternation of power between political parties.”

In his remarks, President of the Senate and Chairman of the National Assembly, Senator Godswill Akpabio, said: “This Silver Jubilee is a testament to the resilience and enduring strength of our democratic institutions.

“The National Assembly has played a pivotal role in safeguarding our democracy, and this event is a fitting tribute to our shared commitment to the nation’s progress.”

On his part, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, affirmed that: “The 10th National Assembly places great significance on celebrating our democratic journey.

“This commemorative sitting underscores our dedication to reflecting on the lessons learned and the opportunities ahead as we continue to serve the Nigerian people.”

According to them, some of the dignitaries expected at the event include the Vice President, Deputy President of the Senate, Deputy Speaker of the House, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief of Staff to the President, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Clerk to the National Assembly, and other notable dignitaries.