Nearly six years have passed since Bukola Saraki concluded his term as President of the Senate, and half a year has elapsed since Ahmad Lawan’s departure. Surprisingly, the National Assembly management has yet to display their portraits in the upper legislative wing’s photo gallery.
Saraki’s election in June 2015, despite fierce opposition from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership, marked a significant chapter. Similarly, Lawan assumed the role of Senate President in June 2019, succeeding Saraki after his unsuccessful bid in 2015.
Traditionally, the National Assembly promptly showcases the portrait of the outgoing Senate President in the gallery. This customary practice, however, appears to be delayed in the current scenario.
In parallel, the House of Representatives chamber promptly exhibits the portraits of former Speakers as soon as they conclude their terms in office.
In June, 2015, less than a week after David Mark vacated office as President of the Senate, his portrait was immediately mounted.
Similarly, in the House of Representatives, the portrait of Yakubu Dogara, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, was mounted in June, 2019, as soon as he vacated office.
Ironically, Saraki’s portrait is still conspicuously missing from the photo gallery of former Presidents of the Senate.
Lawan, who as President of the Senate didn’t approve the mounting of the portrait of Saraki, is yet to have his own photo placed.
A top management staff, who spoke to Daily Sun, said the Bureaucracy of the National Assembly didn’t offer any explanation why the portrait of Saraki was never mounted.
He said the refusal by the management of the National Assembly to honour an aged-long practice, was questioned by many lawmakers, who have repeatedly asked why Saraki’s portrait was missing.
They had accused Lawan of frustrating any move to have it erected. Ironically, Lawan has become a victim too.
The top management staff declined to comment further on the development.
