The death of former President Muhammadu Buhari has frozen all activities at the National Assembly. The legislative arms of government abruptly shut down in response to the shocking news of Buhari’s passing in London on Sunday, July 13, 2025.
Buhari’s Passing Forces Assembly to a Standstill
A statement issued by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, on Monday confirmed the suspension. According to him, both the Senate President and the Speaker of the House of Representatives jointly agreed that all legislative duties should be paused until Tuesday, July 22.
“I am directed by the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives to inform all members of the National Assembly and the general public that all legislative activities in the National Assembly are hereby suspended immediately until Tuesday, 22nd July, 2025,” Ogunlana announced.
The shutdown didn’t just affect lawmakers; aides, journalists, and everyone within the National Assembly complex were caught off guard. Those who thought it was business as usual on Monday quickly realised something bigger was at stake. The halls of power, once buzzing with political debates and motions, have gone eerily silent.
Lawmakers Pay Respect, Suspend Duty
The leadership of both chambers didn’t stop at suspending sittings. They also extended condolences to the Buhari family, the Katsina State government, and the entire Nigerian populace. Buhari was not a stranger to the corridors of power. He ruled Nigeria first as a military head of state between 1983 and 1985, and then returned in 2015 to serve two terms as a democratically elected president, stepping down in 2023.
“Buhari will be remembered for his commitment to Nigeria’s unity and his integrity,” the statement added.
The pause in legislative work wasn’t declared lightly. Lawmakers have now been urged to clear their schedules and fully participate in Buhari’s burial activities. Whether some Nigerians find this level of homage excessive or not, one thing is clear: this suspension is as political as it is emotional.
National Honour or Political Drama?
While many mourn the former president, there are those questioning the logic of suspending all legislative duties for a man who hasn’t been in power for two years. They argue that Buhari had his time, and national business should not come to a halt, especially at such a critical moment in Nigeria’s economy.
But in Nigeria, politics is as much about power as it is about symbolism. The decision to shut down both chambers, even briefly, speaks volumes. Buhari wasn’t just a former president—he was a symbol of an era. His presence loomed large over Nigerian politics for nearly a decade, and now, even in death, his absence is dictating the pace of governance.
Final Bow, Final Power Move
Buhari’s passing may have shocked the public, but it has completely stunned the lawmakers. The suspension of legislative activity is not just a show of respect, it’s a reminder of the man’s grip on Nigeria’s political memory. All microphones are off, gavels are resting, and no motions will be raised—until July 22.
