Rep Olatoye’s death: Senate Adjourns To Wednesday, Set To Commence Debate On 2019 Budget

Saraki, Senate President

The Senate on Tuesday resumed sitting, to adjourn plenary till Wednesday over the death of a member of House of Representatives, Mr Temitope Olatoye, representing Akinyele/Lagelu Federal Constituency of Oyo.

It also hoped to commence on Wednesday, the consideration and debate on the 2019 appropriation bill, assuring that it will meet the record time of passing it into law by April.

This was sequel to a Point of Order by the Senate Leader, Sen. Ahmad Lawan at the plenary.

Lawan had urged the senate to suspend Tuesday’s plenary as a result of the demise of the lawmaker.

Coming under Order 43, he said as part of the National Assembly’s tradition, it was important to suspend legislative activities as a mark of respect.

“You will recall that Hon. Temitope Olatoye died during the elections and I hereby move a motion for adjournment till Wednesday,” he said.

The Senate Minority Leader, Biodun Olujimi seconded the motion.

Meanwhile, a minute silence was observed in honour of the deceased.

President of the Senate, Dr Bukola Saraki, who prayed for the repose of the soul of the deceased adjourned plenary till Wednesday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Olatoye, popularly known as `Sugar” was reportedly shot dead by unknown gunmen on March 9, after which he was rushed to UCH Ibadan, where he died.

NAN also reports that senate had adjourned on Jan. 26 to enable lawmakers vote in the Governorship and House of Assembly Elections of March 9.