The National Assembly deferred substantive legislative business on Tuesday, 27 January 2026, as it resumed plenary sittings after its extended end-of-year recess, in order to honour two serving senators who passed away during the period.
Both chambers devoted the day’s proceedings to solemn observances in memory of Godiya Akwashiki, who represented Nasarawa North Senatorial District, Nasarawa State, and Okechukwu Ezea, who represented Enugu North Senatorial District. The tributes underscored the legislature’s respect for parliamentary tradition, collegiality, and institutional memory.
During the sitting, the presiding officers of both chambers formally announced the deaths of the lawmakers and led tributes highlighting their service to the nation and their respective constituencies. Moments of silence were observed in honour of the departed senators, acknowledging their contributions and sacrifices in the course of public service.
The leadership of the National Assembly emphasised that paying tribute to serving members who pass away while in office is an integral part of parliamentary culture and a long-standing legislative convention.
In line with established parliamentary procedure, all items listed on the Order Paper for the day—including bills, motions, petitions, and other plenary business—were formally stepped down. The leadership of both chambers assured members and the public that the deferred legislative items would be re-listed and taken up at subsequent sittings.
Full legislative business was then scheduled to resume on Wednesday, 28 January 2026.