Senator Godiya Akwashiki, a lawmaker representing the Nasarawa North Senatorial District, has died at a hospital in India after suffering with a protracted illness.
The 52-year-old politician passed away on Wednesday, December 31, while receiving medical treatment. His death was confirmed on New Year’s Day by family members and legislative aides.
Akwashiki, known for his grassroots appeal, transitioned from state-level politics to the National Assembly in 2019. Despite the political volatility in his region, he was the first senator from his district to secure a second term, by defecting to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) after losing his former party’s ticket in 2023.
Served as Majority Leader and Deputy Speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly before his election to the Senate.
At the time of his death, he was the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Air Force in the 10th National Assembly. He is regarded as a unifying figure for the Eggon nation.
Arrangements are currently being made to repatriate the Senator’s remains from India to Nigeria for burial. His passing creates a vacancy in the 10th Senate, which will require a by-election to be conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) later this year.
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