Mark Receives Heroic Welcome At Senate

Former Senate President, Senator David Mark

Immediate past Senate President, Senator David Mark, on Wednesday returned to a heroic welcome at the Hallowed Chambers.

Mark, who is currently the longest serving senator in Nigeria, was sworn in for the six record time by the Senate President, Senator Abubakar Bukola Saraki.

The exciting moment came, as Mark stepped forward to take his oath of office, which was administered on him by the Acting Clerk of the Senate, Mr. Effiong Nelson.

The appearance of the Benue born Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) politician was greeted with cheers from all and sundry in the Chamber.

After the swearing in, which was supervised by Saraki, there was a joyous mood among the senators, irrespective of their political affiliations and differences.

Mark's presence also elicited a feeling of remorse from some senators, who had allegedly worked against his return to the Red Chamber.

Senator Barnabas Gemade also from Benue State, but from the ruling All Progressives Congress - APC) showed his solidarity for Mark's return by hugging and embracing him twice.

In his rush to get a hug and embrace from Mark, Gemade missed his steps and nearly fell down.

Mark's seat, which is situated at the back row, was symbolic.

As he walked back to his seat, after being sworn in, other senators, who were all smiles, lined up the aisle to get a handshake from him.

It would be recalled that during the re-run last Saturday, Mark polled a total of 84, 192 votes to defeat his challenger, Mr. Daniel Onjeh of the APC, who polled 71, 621 votes.

Also sworn in was Senator Ahmad Salam Ogembe from Kogi State. Ogembe, who was sworn in as a fresh lawmaker from Kogi Central Senatorial District, took over from Mohammed Ohiare, after a re-run election.