One of the ministerial nominees at Wednesday’s screening, Balarabe Lawal, attributed his sudden collapse during the Senate exercise to exhaustion, emphasizing that he is now in good condition.
Lawal, originally from Kaduna State, underwent screening alongside nominees Jamila Ibrahim (Kwara) and Ayodele Olawande (Ondo), aiming to join the 45 ministers previously approved by the Red Chamber in August.
The screening process unfolded following President Bola Tinubu’s letter to the Senate, read on the floor of the legislative chamber on Tuesday, seeking confirmation for the nominees. However, during Lawal’s screening, a dramatic turn of events occurred when he collapsed after concluding his introduction, leading many present to rush to his aid.
After approximately an hour and a closed session of the Senate, Lawal emerged from the chamber with a wry smile, reassuring journalists, “I’m alright now. I’ve been treated, and I’m alright now. It was basically exhaustion.” While he couldn’t take questions, his nomination, along with Ibrahim and Olawande, was confirmed.
The incident caused a temporary suspension of proceedings, highlighting the physical toll associated with high-pressure nomination screenings. Despite the unexpected turn, the Senate proceeded to confirm the nominees after Lawal’s reassurance of his well-being.
