The Nigerian political landscape is in deep mourning following the tragic passing of Senator Godiya Akwashiki, representing the Social Democratic Party (SDP) for Nasarawa North. Senator Akwashiki died on Wednesday at a hospital in India, at the age of 52. His untimely death has sent shockwaves through the nation’s legislative body and his constituency.
Senator Akwashiki, a distinguished parliamentarian, was first elected to the Senate in 2019 and subsequently re-elected in 2023. His political career began in the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, where he held significant leadership roles, including Majority Leader and Deputy Speaker. His dedication to public service was evident throughout his career.
In a heartfelt statement released on Thursday, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, lauded the late lawmaker as a “parliamentarian par excellence.” He emphasized Akwashiki’s unwavering patriotism, his commitment to national development, and his tireless efforts to improve the lives of his constituents in Nasarawa North.
Senator Jibrin, who also holds the position of First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, further stated, “Senator Akwashiki worked hard to enhance the standard of living of the people of Nasarawa North Senatorial District and beyond. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and the people of Nasarawa State during this irreparable loss.”
The Social Democratic Party (SDP) National Working Committee (NWC) has also expressed its profound grief over the lawmaker’s passing. The party acknowledged Senator Akwashiki’s significant contributions as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Inter-parliamentary Affairs, Vice Chairman of Media and Public Affairs, and Chair of the Senate Committee on Airforce.
The SDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, described Senator Akwashiki as a “grassroots political leader” who left an indelible mark on the socio-political development of Nasarawa North and the state as a whole. His passing has undoubtedly created a void within the party.
The statement from the SDP continued, “His death has created a vacuum in the SDP and will be greatly missed by the Party, his constituents, and the political firmament of the state. We pray that his soul finds repose and that God grants his family the fortitude to bear this loss.”
Featured snippet paragraph: The answer to what happened to Senator Godiya Akwashiki is that he passed away at a hospital in India on Wednesday at the age of 52. His death has led to widespread mourning in Nigerian political circles.
Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum, highlighting Senator Akwashiki’s legacy as a committed legislator and a respected public servant. His dedication to his constituents and his contributions to national development will be remembered.
Senator Akwashiki’s influence extended beyond his immediate constituency, as he actively participated in inter-parliamentary affairs, fostering stronger relationships with international legislative bodies.
His role as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Airforce underscored his commitment to national security and defense, areas he approached with diligence and foresight.
The SDP’s recognition of his grassroots leadership emphasizes his deep connection with the people he represented and his ability to translate their needs into effective policy.
The Senate Deputy President’s commendation as a “parliamentarian par excellence” speaks volumes about his legislative acumen and his impact on the Senate’s proceedings.
The loss of Senator Godiya Akwashiki is a significant blow to the SDP and to the Nigerian Senate, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated service and impactful contributions.
