Akwashiki’s Death a Deep Loss to Nasarawa, Nigeria – Al-Makura

By our Reporter

Former Governor of Nasarawa State, Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, has described the death of Senator Godiya Akwashiki as a deep and painful loss to Nasarawa State and the nation at large.
Al-Makura made this remark while speaking with journalists during a condolence visit to the family of the late senator, where he reflected on Akwashiki’s political career, personal qualities, and contributions to public service.
He said Akwashiki’s passing represents one of the most sorrowful moments of his public life, describing the late senator as a loyal ally and dedicated public servant whose absence would be strongly felt.
According to Al-Makura, although Akwashiki had been bedridden for more than two years and was unable to participate actively in Senate activities, his commitment to service and loyalty to leadership never waned.
He portrayed the late lawmaker as a disciplined and principled politician who respected authority and maintained close relationships with his constituents.
Recalling his political journey, Al-Makura noted that Akwashiki rose to prominence in 2011 as Majority Leader of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly during his first term as governor, where he displayed remarkable leadership qualities.
He added that Akwashiki later served as Deputy Speaker during his second term, playing a key role in strengthening legislative stability and policy direction in the state.
Al-Makura explained that Akwashiki’s outstanding performance at the state level influenced his support for his emergence as a senator representing Nasarawa North Senatorial District.
He said both men served together in the Ninth Senate from 2019, during which Akwashiki made meaningful contributions through debates, oversight responsibilities, and effective representation of his constituents.
He further noted that the senator’s constituency projects were evenly distributed across Nasarawa, Akwanga, and Wamba local government areas, cutting across party lines and benefiting various communities.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Nasarawa State, Hon. Safiyanu Isa Andaha, described Akwashiki’s death as a major setback to grassroots governance in the state.
Andaha said the late senator was distinguished by his uncommon dedication to the people, adding that his quality of representation since the return to democracy in 1999 was outstanding.
While acknowledging the pain caused by his death, the ALGON chairman said faith offered some consolation, though it could not fill the void left behind.
Similarly, a senatorial aspirant in Nasarawa North, Duba Dodo, described Akwashiki’s passing as unfortunate and urged political leaders to emulate the late senator’s values of service, loyalty, and people-oriented leadership.