Akwashiki’s death a profound loss to Nassarawa, Nig – Almakura

By Abubakar Yunusa

Former Governor of Nasarawa State, Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, has described the death of Senator Godiya Akwashiki as a profound loss to Nasarawa State and the entire nation.

Al-Makura stated this in an interview with newsmen during a condolence visit to the late senator’s family, where he reflected on Akwashiki’s political life, character, and contributions to governance.

According to him, the passing of Akwashiki marks one of his saddest moments in public life, stressing that the former senator was a dependable ally and a committed public servant whose impact would be difficult to replace.

He noted that although Akwashiki was bedridden for over two years and unable to actively participate in Senate proceedings, his dedication to service and loyalty to leadership remained unquestionable.

Al-Makura described the late senator as a faithful politician who consistently showed respect for authority while maintaining strong ties with his constituents.

Tracing his political journey, Al-Makura recalled that Akwashiki emerged as Majority Leader of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly in 2011 during his first term as governor, where he distinguished himself through effective leadership.

He added that the late lawmaker later served as Deputy Speaker during his second term, further strengthening the legislature and contributing to policy stability in the state.

Al-Makura said Akwashiki’s performance at the state level informed his support for his elevation to the Senate, where he represented Nasarawa North Senatorial District.

According to him, both men served together in the Ninth Senate from 2019, during which Akwashiki made notable contributions through plenary debates, oversight functions, and constituency representation.

He emphasized that the senator’s constituency projects were spread across Nasarawa, Akwanga, and Wamba local government areas, cutting across party affiliations and benefiting diverse communities.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Nasarawa State chapter, Hon. Safiyanu Isa Andaha, described Akwashiki’s death as a devastating blow to grassroots governance in the state.

Andaha said the late senator stood out for his uncommon commitment to the people, noting that his level of representation since the return to democracy in 1999 was exceptional.

While acknowledging the pain of the loss, the ALGON chairman said faith provided some comfort, though it could not erase the vacuum created by Akwashiki’s passing.

In a similar reaction, a senatorial aspirant in Nasarawa North, Duba Dodo, described the death as unfortunate, urging political leaders to uphold the values of service, loyalty, and people-centred leadership exemplified by the late senator.