A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje, and the former Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Razak Atunwa, have lauded the emergence of Dr. Bukola Saraki as the Senate President of the eighth National Assembly.

Baraje, in a congratulatory message to Saraki wednesday in Ilorin, described the development as one of the best things that has happened to democracy in Nigeria.

He hailed the courage and unity of purpose demonstrated by the senators in appointing their leaders.

According to him, "The emergence of Saraki as the President of the Senate without any rancour was an indication that democracy has come to stay in the country."

He urged the National Assembly to ensure the passage of bills that would have positive impact on Nigerians as well as work harmoniously with President Muhammadu Buhari.

Baraje similarly described the emergence of the Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Dr Ali Ahmad, as well deserved, "considering his wealth of experience in legislative matter as a former member of the House of Representatives."

Also, the former speaker of the state assembly and member representing Asa/Ilorin West constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Razak Atunwa, has congratulated the newly elected senate president and speaker of the House of Representatives, Saraki and Hon. Yakubu Dogara respectively.

Atunwa praised the emergence of the new leaders of the National Assembly in an atmosphere he described as a peaceful and transparent.

In a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Olawale Rotimi, Atunwa said: "The process that led to the emergence of Saraki as senate president and Dogara as speaker of the House has further shown the world the strength of Nigeria's commitment to democratic principles, by respecting the provisions of the constitution and voting transparently, the lawmakers have confirmed their determination to serve Nigerians with their positions in the National Assembly."

Atunwa described Saraki emergence as a victory rooted in competence and consistent commitment to progress.