Political leaders, lawmakers and supporters from across party divides gathered at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Monday to receive the remains of Senator Godiya Akwashiki, as tributes focused not only on loss, but on the legacy of unity, integrity and service he left behind.
The ceremony drew top figures of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and other political stakeholders, underscoring the wide respect the late senator commanded during his lifetime.
Emotions ran high as condolences poured in for the family and the people of Nasarawa North Senatorial District.
Former SDP presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, described Akwashiki as a stabilising force whose influence transcended politics.
“We have lost one of our strongest soldiers,” Adebayo said, noting that the pain of his passing was shared far beyond party structures.
According to him, the late senator’s reputation for decency and public trust remained his greatest legacy.
“He left behind a good name, and that is priceless. His people trusted him completely, and his colleagues respected him across party lines,” he said, adding that the loss would be felt deeply within the party and the state’s political landscape.
Adebayo stressed that Akwashiki’s brand of politics—anchored on character and service—was increasingly rare.
“For us as a party, losing someone of his calibre affects the quality of representation and politics. That is why we all came, to stand with the family and honour his service,” he said.
Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Solid Minerals Development, Hon. Jonathan Gaza Gbefwi, also highlighted the enduring mark Akwashiki left on governance in the state.
“He was a seasoned legislator, a committed family man and a leader who served with distinction. This is a painful loss for Nasarawa State,” Gbefwi said, praying that the tragedy would strengthen unity within the state and the SDP.
He particularly noted the impact on the Egon nation, which has suffered multiple losses in recent times, and called for collective prayers and support.
Speaking on behalf of the party, Acting National Chairman of the SDP, Dr. Sadiq Umar Abubakar Gombe, described the senator’s death as a national loss at a critical moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
“This loss goes beyond Nasarawa State and the SDP. It is a loss to Nigeria. The turnout here today shows that his life and service resonated across political boundaries,” Gombe said.
Similarly, Speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Dr. Danadi Jato, reflected on their years of working together and praised Akwashiki’s legislative achievements.
“He was a performing lawmaker and a trailblazer from Nasarawa North. His contributions, both at the state and national levels, will not be forgotten,” Jato said, describing the grief among the Egon people as profound.
The reception concluded with prayers and solemn tributes, as leaders and citizens alike remembered Senator Godiya Akwashiki not only for the offices he held, but for the unity and respect he inspired in life and in death.
