A dramatic scene unfolded during the Senate screening of the Kaduna State ministerial nominee, Abbas Balarabe, as he collapsed after delivering his presentation before the lawmakers.
Balarabe had just finished addressing the Senate when he suddenly collapsed, prompting immediate concern and action. One of the Kaduna senators was praising him when the incident occurred.
Senate President GodsWill Akpabio reacted swiftly, calling for assistance, saying, “Bring water and sugar. Call Dr. Musa.” Concerned for Balarabe’s well-being, Akpabio then called for a closed-door session to address the situation.
Abbas Balarabe had been nominated as a replacement for the former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai. His nomination was conveyed in a letter read by Akpabio during a plenary session earlier in the week.
Balarabe’s name was presented alongside Dr. Jamila Ibrahim and Ayodele Olawande, who were nominated as the Minister of Youths and Minister of State for Youths, respectively.
Abbas Balarabe, a former Secretary to the Kaduna State government, was previously appointed to lead a 65-member transition committee ahead of the swearing-in of Uba Sani.
It’s worth noting that in August, the Senate refused to confirm the nomination of Nasir El-Rufai, along with Stella Okotete (Delta State) and Abubakar Danlandi (Taraba State). The President had initially sent 48 nominees to the Senate, of which 45 were confirmed as ministers.
The incident underscores the intensity and significance of the ministerial screening process in Nigeria and the importance of ensuring the health and well-being of nominees during these proceedings.