By Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Plateau State House of Assembly on Thursday held a valedictory session in honour of the late former Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Peter Ajang Azi.
The session was attended by former Speakers and Deputy Speakers, serving and former members of the Assembly, traditional rulers, former Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Danladi Abok Atu, well-wishers and members of the public.
The session provided an opportunity for members and stakeholders to reflect on the life, leadership and contributions of the late parliamentarian to the legislature and the development of Plateau State.
The Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel, described the late Peter Ajang Azi as a courageous, transparent and committed legislator who understood the powers and responsibilities of the legislature.
Rt. Hon. Naanlong said the late former Speaker served the House with integrity and patriotism, contributing to the passage of motions and enactment of laws in the interest of Plateau State.
He noted that Azi’s leadership style promoted stability and strengthened relationships among the various arms of government.
The Speaker said the late Peter Azi lived a life dedicated to public service and the development of Plateau State, adding that he left behind a legacy worthy of remembrance and emulation.
Members and former presiding officers who spoke during the session described the late former Speaker as a father, mentor, grassroots politician and bridge-builder who related with people irrespective of political, religious or social differences.
The member representing Jos North West Constituency, Hon. Mark Sunday Na’ah, described the late Peter Azi as a father and political mentor who supported his political journey and contributed significantly to his emergence as a member of the House.
He also recalled Azi’s humility, accessibility and respect for everyone.
Former Speakers and other members equally eulogised the deceased for his dignity, simplicity, humility, jovial disposition and commitment to unity, noting that his positive impact on the people of Plateau State would remain part of his enduring legacy.
The Majority Leader described the late Peter Azi as a builder who added value to the legislature, while other former colleagues, including Saleh Yipmo, Abdul Yanga and Joshua Madaki, paid tribute to his contributions and called for efforts to preserve and immortalise his legacy.
Following the Speaker’s remarks, the Majority Leader moved a motion for the remains of the late Rt. Hon. Peter Ajang Azi to be brought into the hallowed chamber for the valedictory proceedings.
The motion was seconded by the Minority Leader, Rt. Hon. Dewan Gabriel, after which the remains were brought into the chamber.
On behalf of the Azi family, Philip Azi expressed appreciation to the Speaker and members of the Tenth Assembly for standing with the family and honouring the memory of the late former Speaker.
The Clerk of the House thereafter read the resolutions of the Assembly in honour of the deceased.
The House observed a minute of silence and resolved to open a condolence register in his honour.
The Speaker also urged members to attend the funeral, saying the loss should strengthen their resolve to stand by and defend one another in times of need.
