SDP Honours Late Sen. Akwashiki, Holds Tribute in Lafia

By David Odama

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has paid tribute to the late Senator Godiya Akwashiki, observing a moment of silence in honour of the former lawmaker, who passed away at the age of 52 in an Indian hospital.
Until his death, Senator Akwashiki represented Nasarawa North Senatorial District in the 10th Senate on the platform of the SDP.

He was first elected to the Red Chamber in 2019 and re-elected in 2023. Prior to his election into the Senate, Akwashiki served in the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, where he rose through the ranks to become Majority Leader and later Deputy Speaker.
During his legislative career, the late senator chaired the Senate Committee on Air Force and Inter-Parliamentary Affairs and also served as Vice Chairman of the Committee on Media and Public Affairs.
Speaking at the tribute ceremony organised in Lafia by the SDP National Working Committee (NWC), the party described Senator Akwashiki as a symbol of integrity, selfless service and principled leadership.
The event attracted party leaders, traditional rulers and other stakeholders, who reflected on his values and contributions to Nasarawa State and the nation.
In his remarks, the SDP National Chairman, Prof. Sadiq Gombe, described the late senator as a “shining star,” whose death, he said, was a colossal loss to his family, the party and the country at large.
According to Gombe, Akwashiki lived a life defined by honour, compassion and the fear of God, earning him respect across political, ethnic and religious divides.
He further noted that the senator’s leadership was anchored on service to humanity, accountability and a deep commitment to the welfare of his constituents.
The national chairman also revealed that shortly before his demise, Senator Akwashiki had expressed concern about his health condition and its possible impact on his ability to serve effectively, and had even considered stepping aside in the interest of quality representation.
Gombe described the gesture as a rare display of responsibility and patriotism.
Prayers were offered for the repose of the senator’s soul, with supplications for God’s forgiveness of his shortcomings and strength for his family to bear the loss.
“True leadership is measured by legacy, not titles or years. Senator Akwashiki’s legacy speaks for itself,” Gombe said.
Other speakers, including Senator Suleiman Adokwe, Nasarawa State Deputy Governor Emmanuel Akabe, SDP leaders and traditional rulers, also paid glowing tributes to the late lawmaker, praising his commitment to dialogue, integrity and grassroots development.
They recalled his execution of constituency projects across Nasarawa North, describing him as one of the most effective lawmakers produced by the state since 1999.
The programme concluded with prayers for peace and progress in Nasarawa State and Nigeria.