Alhaji Tanko Yakassai, an elder statesman, on Wednesday, described the death of the Speaker of the 8th National Assembly, Ghali Na’Abba, as shocking and devastating.

He told newsmen in Kano that “Ghali is my son; he grew up to hold position of authority, and his

renowned principles on separation of power made him a speaker’s speaker.

“He died when his services are needed most.”

Na’Abba died in Abuja on Wednesday morning at the age of 65.

He represented Kano Municipal Federal Constituency and won election to the National Assembly on the ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 1999.

He became the Speaker of the House of Representatives after Alhaji Salisu Buhari was forced out of the Assembly over certificate and age issues.

Yakassai added that “Ghali’s death at this point of our march to nationhood is simply irreparable.

“The late speaker treated both his seniors and younger ones with respect and dignity.

“I, therefore, want to commiserate with the Na’Abba family, in particular, Kano State and Nigeria

in general over his demise.

“I pray to Allah to forgive his shortcomings and grant him aljannat firdaus.”

NAN