National Assembly Suspends Legislative Activities For Seven Days To Honour Late Former President Buhari.
The Nigerian National Assembly has announced the suspension of all legislative activities for one week in a solemn tribute to the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday, 13 July 2025, in London, United Kingdom, at the age of 82. The decision, affecting plenary sessions, committee meetings, and oversight functions across both the Senate and the House of Representatives, was confirmed in a statement issued on Monday by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Barrister Kamoru Ogunlana.
The suspension, effective immediately, will see all legislative engagements paused until Tuesday, 22 July 2025. The move is a mark of respect for Buhari’s legacy and service to the nation, with lawmakers urged to reschedule their commitments to participate fully in the former president’s burial activities.
In the statement, Ogunlana conveyed the deep sorrow of the Senate President and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, noting, “The National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria mourns the passing of His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, former President and Commander-in-Chief, who died yesterday in London.” The leadership extended heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Nigeria, the government and people of Katsina State, and Buhari’s wife, children, and extended family.
Buhari, who served as Nigeria’s military head of state from 1983 to 1985 and as a democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023, is remembered for his commitment to Nigeria’s unity and his reputation for integrity. The statement concluded with a prayer: “May Almighty Allah grant his soul eternal rest in Aljannatul Firdaus.”
The Southern Senators Forum, led by Senator Adetokunbo Abiru, also issued a condolence message, describing Buhari as a symbol of integrity and discipline whose frugal lifestyle inspired many to embrace honesty and modesty in public life. Tributes have poured in from across Nigeria and beyond, with President Bola Tinubu describing Buhari as a patriot, soldier, and statesman who served with unwavering dedication. Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, and other prominent figures, including former Senate President David Mark and African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Youssouf, have also expressed their condolences.
Buhari’s remains are expected to arrive in Nigeria for burial today, in accordance with Islamic rites, accompanied by Vice-President Kashim Shettima. The former president’s death, following a prolonged illness, has prompted an outpouring of grief, with many reflecting on his contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape, including his historic 2015 election as the first opposition candidate to defeat an incumbent since the return to multiparty democracy in 1999.
However, Buhari’s tenure was not without controversy. His administration’s policies, such as the naira swap initiative and the ban on rice imports, led to economic challenges for many Nigerians, with the price of a 50kg bag of rice soaring from 7,500 naira in 2015 to 60,000 naira, exacerbating hunger in parts of the country. His presidency also faced criticism over security issues, including clashes between farmers and Fulani herders and the abduction of schoolchildren in the northwest.
Despite these challenges, Buhari’s supporters highlight his dedication to national unity and his personal integrity. The Northern Elders Forum and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi are among those who have expressed profound sorrow at his passing, with Modi noting Buhari’s contributions to Nigeria’s progress.
As Nigeria prepares to bid farewell to one of its most prominent leaders, the National Assembly’s gesture underscores the significant impact of Buhari’s life and service. The nation now looks to honour his memory through a week of mourning and reflection.
