THE MACE AS A SYMBOL OF AUTHOURITY IN THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
The Mace is a symbol of authority of the House
It also reflects the dignity of the office of the Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives.
When a new President/Speaker is sworn in, he or she returns his acknowledgment to the members for the honor.
He then takes the chair and the Mace which was earlier laid under the table.
Thereafter, Whenever the President/Speaker takes the chair, it is laid on the table.
When he/she presides as chairman, for instance, in committee of the whole, the Mace is placed in the lower bracket under the table.
THE SIGNIFICANCES OF MACE
The Mace is the symbol of authority and power that the constitution has delegated to the National Assembly.
The Sergeant-At-Arms is the custodians and is the only body authorized to touch it during proceedings.
Only when it is in place is the Assembly duly authorized and proceedings may begin.
Also Read: Parliamentary Terms In Nigeria’s National Assembly
The President/Speaker is preceded by the Sergeant-At-Arms carrying the Mace when he or she enters/leaves the chamber at the beginning/end of each sitting.
It is borne on the Sergeant-At-Arms left shoulder when their Deputies takes the chair in the absence of Senate President/Speaker.
When the House resolved into a committee of the whole, it is placed on the lower bracket at the front of the table.
When the House adjourns or concludes committee stage, it is lifted back to its position on the table.