Nasarawa North Senator Godiya Akwashiki Dies at 52 After Prolonged Illness

The Nigerian National Assembly has been plunged into mourning following the confirmation of the death of Senator Godiya Akwashiki, the lawmaker representing Nasarawa North Senatorial District. The tragic event reportedly occurred on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, casting a somber shadow over the New Year celebrations for the political class and his constituents. Family sources have indicated that the Senator passed away at a medical facility in India, where he had been undergoing treatment for a protracted illness. His demise at the age of 52 cuts short a vibrant legislative career that was marked by consistent electoral success and a deep connection to the grassroots populace of his home state.

Born on August 3, 1973, in Angba Iggah within the Nassarawa Eggon Local Government Area, Senator Akwashiki rose from humble beginnings to become a central figure in Nasarawa politics. His early life in the community helped forge the strong local bonds that would later become the hallmark of his political trajectory. Unlike many politicians who rely on distant party structures, Akwashiki built his influence through direct engagement with the electorate, a style that earned him a reputation as a politician of the people. His passing is being viewed not just as a loss of a legislator, but as the exit of a bridge-builder who connected the rural demands of his people with the federal resources available in Abuja.

Before his ascent to the national stage, the late lawmaker paid his dues in the legislative arm of the state government. He served multiple terms in the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, where his leadership acumen was recognized by his peers. During his tenure at the state level, he rose through the ranks to hold significant positions, including Majority Leader and eventually Deputy Speaker. This period of service at the state assembly provided him with the requisite legislative experience and political capital that facilitated his smooth transition to the National Assembly, preparing him for the complexities of federal lawmaking.

Senator Akwashiki’s entry into the Senate in 2019 was a significant milestone in his career, but it was his subsequent re-election that cemented his legacy in the political history of his district. By securing a second term, he became the first senator from Nasarawa North Senatorial District to win two consecutive elections since the creation of the state. This feat was particularly notable given that he achieved it under the banner of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), a platform outside the two dominant national parties. His electoral victory demonstrated his personal popularity and the trust reposed in him by his constituents, transcending typical party affiliations.

The late Senator was known for his focus on constituency-driven projects, a priority that endeared him to the electorate. His legislative agenda was often centered on bringing tangible development to Nasarawa North, ranging from infrastructure improvements to youth empowerment schemes. In the Senate, he was an active voice, often advocating for the interests of the North Central region while participating in various committee assignments. His colleagues in the Red Chamber have often described him as a dedicated patriot who approached legislative duties with a sense of urgency and commitment to national unity.

The vacancy created by his death brings to the fore the constitutional requirements for filling empty seats in the National Assembly. As per the electoral laws, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will be expected to conduct a bye-election within a stipulated timeframe to elect a successor. This upcoming contest will likely be a litmus test for the Social Democratic Party to retain the seat without the towering influence of Akwashiki, while other political parties may view this as an opportunity to reclaim the district. The political maneuvering for his replacement is expected to commence after the official mourning period.

Reactions to the news of his death have been pouring in from across the political spectrum. Colleagues, state officials, and community leaders have expressed their shock and sadness at the untimely loss of a man described as a "political colossus" of Nasarawa State. The narrative emerging from the tributes highlights a consensus on his impact: that of a leader who remained accessible despite his elevation to high office. The loss is particularly acute for the SDP, which loses one of its few prominent voices in the federal legislature, weakening its representation at the national center.

As arrangements for his repatriation and burial begin, the focus remains on his legacy. Senator Godiya Akwashiki will be remembered as a tenacious politician who defied the odds to make history in his district. His journey from the State Assembly to the Senate, and his ability to navigate the treacherous waters of Nigerian politics to secure a second term, stands as a testament to his resilience. The coming days will be dedicated to honoring his service, with state and federal governments expected to pay their last respects to a lawmaker who died in active service to his fatherland.