The political landscape of Nasarawa State and the National Assembly is in mourning following the death of Senator Godiya Akwashiki. The lawmaker, who represented the Nasarawa North Senatorial Zone, passed away at the age of 52.
A Loss Confirmed by Family
Senator Akwashiki died on Wednesday in a hospital in India, where he had been undergoing medical treatment. A source close to the family confirmed the tragic news, revealing that the senator had been seriously ill for some time before his medical evacuation abroad. The family has expressed profound grief, describing his passing as a great loss not only to Nasarawa State but also to the entire Eggon nation and Nigeria.
Political Journey of the Late Senator
Born on August 3, 1973, in Angba Iggah village, Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area, Godiya Akwashiki's political career was marked by significant service. He began in the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, where he served two terms from 2011 to 2019 under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). His influence grew rapidly; during his first term (2011–2015), he held the position of Majority Leader. In his second term (2015–2019), he ascended to the role of Deputy Speaker.
In 2019, Akwashiki moved to the national stage, elected to the Senate representing Nasarawa North on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). After switching parties, he was re-elected in the 2023 general elections under the Social Democratic Party (SDP). In the National Assembly, he chaired the Senate Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Affairs and served as Vice-Chairman of the Committee on Media and Public Affairs. He was later appointed Chairman of the Senate Committee on Air Force on August 8, 2023.
Educational Background and Legacy
Senator Akwashiki's educational journey began at Government Primary School, Angba Iggah, where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate in 1987. He then proceeded to Government Technical College, Assakio, completing his secondary education in 1993. He furthered his studies at Nasarawa State University, Keffi, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration in 2010.
The late senator is survived by his wife and children. His death creates a vacuum in the political representation of Nasarawa North and ends a career dedicated to public service across multiple legislative levels and political parties.
