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During a Senate screening on Wednesday, ministerial nominee Balarabe Abbas Lawal experienced a sudden health incident, causing immediate concern and commotion within the Chamber.
The nominee, hailing from Kaduna State, had delivered a lengthy speech during his screening before suddenly collapsing, prompting several lawmakers to rush to his assistance.
Lawal is among the three new ministerial nominees currently undergoing screening in the Senate. The other nominees include Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim from Kwara State and Mr. Ayodele Olawande from Ondo State.
Medical personnel were called in to resuscitate him after he slumped, and they successfully revived him.
Lawal was the second nominee to undergo screening following a motion by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, to extend the session beyond 2 pm in order to complete the day’s agenda.
After completing his presentation to the lawmakers, Lawal was in the process of being endorsed by Senator Sunday Marshal, who represents Kaduna South. Senator Marshal was affirming that the three Senators from Kaduna had no objections to Lawal’s nomination when, suddenly, Lawal collapsed on the chamber floor.
In response to the situation, the Senate convened a closed-door session to address the matter and make efforts to revive Lawal, who remained inside the chamber.
The nominee expressed his extensive government service and his commitment to bringing his wealth of experience to President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He stated, “I wish to emphasize that throughout my career, I had the privilege of serving as the Secretary to the Government on three separate occasions, spanning from 2015 up to the present day. It’s worth noting that I might be one of the longest-serving Secretaries to the Government in Nigeria’s history.
During my tenure, I actively contributed to various administrations, engaged in policy formulation, and worked tirelessly to effect positive change within the country, both at the federal and state levels. I am eager to leverage this valuable experience in my future role within the President’s cabinet.
I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to all those who have taken the time to listen, and I extend my sincere gratitude to the President of the Senate for granting me the opportunity to address this esteemed chamber.”
“This is a magnificent abode, a bastion of integrity, a sanctuary of democracy, and I am profoundly honored to stand before this hallowed chamber and share my thoughts. Today marks a pinnacle in my career, as I have the privilege to address this esteemed gathering.
I am filled with joy; this may well be the happiest day of my life to stand here and speak before you.
I would like to conclude by emphasizing the paramount importance of the environment, a matter I believe warrants our utmost attention. We are well aware of the numerous challenges our environment faces, and it is imperative that we address them.”
