—–as he thanks God, Nigerians for a successful tenure.
The ancient town of Otukpo, Benue state literally stood still on Sunday as Nigerians from all walks of life converged on the community for a thanksgiving service in honour of the President of the Senate Senator David Mark for an interrupted and successful eight years tenure in the upper legislative chamber.
In and outside the Premises of St. Augustine Catholic Church , Otukpo was not enough to accommodate the congregation and other worshippers.
Eminent Nigerians including , Serving and past Senators, members of the House of Representatives, prominent Clergy men and women and traditional rulers all unanimously praised the exemplary leadership of Senator Mark who stabilized the Senate, the National Assembly and the polity .
Speaker of the House of Representatives EMEKA Iheioha , deputy Senate leader Abdul Ningi, Senator Chris Anyanwu as well as Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue state all eulogized Senator Mark for providing quality leadership at least the National Assembly a feat they described as unprecedented.
The Speaker stated that the Senate President has set a standard in leadership and would for ever be a reference point needed to navigate the political landscape of the nation.
Deputy Senate leader Abdul Ningi extolled the virtues of Senator Mark saying that he gave the senate identity and integrity which he believes is a template for in coming National Assembly
Chairman, House Committee on Navy Senator Chris Anyanwu said Nigerians need to celebrate Mark for rising up to the occasion anytime the nation runs into turbulent waters.
In his remarks, Senator Mark in an emotion laden speech expressed appreciation to God and all Nigerians for the opportunity to serve promising to promote peace, unity of Nigeria at all times.
Senator Mark attributed his success as the President of the Senate to his colleagues who cooperated and supported him through out the eight years of his Senate Presidency.
Earlier in his Homily at St. Augustine Catholic Church, Otukpo, Bishop William Avenya called on the political class to stop actions or tendencies capable of creating segregation among Nigerians..
Rather, Bishop Avenya suggested the promotion of merit and integrity in the system as needed ingredients to enhance development.
He canvassed for reconciliation of all sections of Nigeria just as he tasked citizens to cooperate with government in the efforts to build a strong and virile democracy that would engender development.
Signed:
Paul Mumeh, Chief Press Secretary to the President of the Senate.