Abuja: Former Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate, Dr. Adewole Adebayo, led party leaders on Monday to receive the remains of Sen. Godiya Akwashiki at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, from India.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Sen. Akwashiki, representing Nasarawa North under the SDP, passed away recently while undergoing medical treatment in an Indian hospital. The event saw political leaders, lawmakers, and supporters from multiple parties come together in a show of respect and reflection.
Adebayo noted the late senator’s significant impact within the SDP and Nasarawa State, emphasizing the void his passing has left. ‘We’ve lost one of our strongest soldiers. We feel completely devastated, especially for the family,’ he stated, highlighting the widespread impact of the senator’s death across political lines.
He further described Akwashiki as a person of integrity, whose reputation would continue to resonate with his constituents and colleagues. ‘He was a great Christian, a great family man, and a good senator. If he had lived longer, people would still consider that seat as his,’ Adebayo added.
Hon. Jonathan Gbefwi, Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals Development, called the senator’s death heartbreaking, recognizing the indelible impact he left on Nasarawa State. ‘He was a seasoned legislator, a wonderful father, and a fantastic husband. It is a great loss to Nasarawa State,’ Gbefwi expressed, urging party unity in the wake of the tragedy.
Dr. Sadiq Abubakar-Gombe, Acting National Chairman of the SDP, expressed the party’s profound sadness, acknowledging the senator’s loss as a significant blow to his constituency, Nasarawa State, and Nigeria’s democracy. He noted the diverse turnout at the airport as a testament to Akwashiki’s broad acceptance and political legacy.
Dr. Danladi Jato, Speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, highlighted the senator’s dedication and performance during their time together in the state assembly. ‘He was a performing senator. It is a very great loss, especially to the Eggon people,’ Jato remarked.
The solemn ceremony concluded with prayers and condolences, as leaders, party members, and supporters paid their final respects to the late senator.