**After 33 years in the Green Chamber, Aku Jethro tells untold story of vigilance, teamwork, quiet heroism
By Fatima Ndagi
For over three decades, the Mace Bearer of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Mr. Aku Jethro, stood as the silent guardian of the nation’s legislative authority. Now retired, he has opened up on the quiet intelligence, discipline, and teamwork that ensured the House’s mace — the very symbol of parliamentary power — was never snatched under his watch.
The mace, a golden staff that validates every proceeding of the parliament, is not just ceremonial; it embodies the sovereignty of the legislature. Its safety lies in the hands of the Sergeant-at-Arms unit, a role Jethro fulfilled with loyalty and courage until his retirement last Thursday after 33 years of unbroken service.
At a send-forth ceremony held in his honour at the National Assembly, Jethro pulled back the curtain on how his unit built a discreet network of vigilance that protected the emblem of legislative authority through moments of intense political tension.
“It’s just an intelligence network,” he said. “The staff working closely with me developed a system where, if we sensed something unusual, we quickly mobilized and strategized. The politicians knew we were not taking things for granted.”
“Even when there was pressure, we remained equal to the task. Through the collaboration of chamber staff and the Sergeant-at-Arms unit, we always prevailed,” he added.
Beyond recounting dramatic moments, Jethro reflected on Nigeria’s democratic journey, emphasizing that the three arms of government — the legislature, executive, and judiciary — must keep each other in check to deepen governance.
“They are doing their best,” he said, “but I believe more can still be done.”
He expressed gratitude to colleagues and lawmakers who, over the years, became part of his professional family.
“I’ll greatly miss you all, but I can never forget you. I know I’m leaving you in capable hands.”
Lawmakers and friends poured glowing tributes on the veteran mace bearer.
Hon. Daniel Asama, a member from Plateau State, described him as “a man of discipline and focus.”
“Jethro doesn’t talk to anyone while carrying the mace until he’s done before greeting anyone,” Asama recalled. “Having served in the Plateau State House of Assembly before, I know what the mace means — and Jethro embodied that respect perfectly.”
The event ended with the presentation of a “Meritorious Service” award plaque, honouring his dedication, professionalism, and composure in upholding parliamentary order through turbulent times.
For many, Jethro’s calm presence during stormy sessions represented the invisible strength behind the Green Chamber’s authority. In moments when tempers flared and political passions ran high, he and his team stood firm — ensuring that the mace, and by extension, Nigeria’s democracy, remained untouched.
As he bows out in quiet dignity, Mr. Aku Jethro leaves behind a legacy not of words spoken, but of discipline, duty, and devotion to the sanctity of the legislature — a timeless reminder that democracy’s symbols endure only because a few choose to protect them, no matter the storm.
