Nigerian Senate Mourns: Senator Godiya Akwashiki Dies at 52 in India

Senator Godiya Akwashiki, the representative for Nasarawa North Senatorial District in Nigeria’s National Assembly, has died at the age of 52 while receiving treatment in an Indian hospital. The shocking news, confirmed by multiple sources including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, plunged the Nigerian political landscape into mourning on Thursday.

Akwashiki, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), served as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Housing before his untimely demise. His death was announced during Thursday’s plenary session at the National Assembly in Abuja, where Akpabio described him as a “committed and hardworking legislator” whose contributions to national development would be deeply missed. The Senate observed a minute of silence in his honor, suspending proceedings briefly to reflect on his legacy.

Details surrounding Akwashiki’s passing remain sparse, with reports indicating he had been battling an undisclosed illness. He was airlifted to India for specialized medical care in recent weeks, a common destination for Nigerian elites seeking advanced treatment unavailable locally. Family sources and colleagues confirmed the news to journalists outside the National Assembly, though no official cause of death has been released as of press time. Social media tributes from fellow senators, including Ali Ndume and Ned Nwoko, highlighted his jovial personality, nicknamed “AK 47” for his robust advocacy on constituency matters.

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Elected in 2019 and reelected in 2023, Akwashiki’s political career spanned over a decade. Born on October 10, 1972, in Akwanga Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, he rose from local politics to become a vocal voice for northern interests in the Red Chamber. His portfolio extended to key committees like Appropriations and Finance, where he championed bills on affordable housing and infrastructure development. Beyond legislation, Akwashiki was known for philanthropy, funding scholarships and empowerment programs in Nasarawa North, a region plagued by banditry and economic challenges.

President Bola Tinubu, in a statement from the State House, expressed profound grief, calling Akwashiki a “pillar of progressive politics” and praying for strength for his wife, children, and the people of Nasarawa State. Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa declared a three-day mourning period, with flags at half-mast across the state. The APC National Secretariat in Abuja also flew its flags at half-mast, hailing him as a “loyal party stalwart.”

Akwashiki’s death marks the second major loss for the 10th Senate in recent months, following the passing of other lawmakers amid ongoing health concerns in Nigeria’s political circles. His remains are expected to be flown back to Nigeria soon for burial in his hometown, with funeral arrangements to be announced by his family. As tributes continue to flood in, questions linger about the healthcare challenges prompting high-profile Nigerians to seek treatment abroad, spotlighting gaps in the country’s medical infrastructure.

The National Assembly has adjourned plenary until further notice, with lawmakers set to reconvene next week to discuss a formal valedictory session in Akwashiki’s memory.