Nasarawa State-born architect, Arc. Duba Dodo Ishaya, has revealed his intention to contest for the Nasarawa North Senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections, citing youth representation, service to the people, and continuity of effective leadership as his core motivations.
In an interview, Ishaya, who hails from Akwanga Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, said his aspiration to join the Senate is driven by a desire to give young people a stronger voice in national decision-making while contributing meaningfully to grassroots development.
“My motivation is purely service,” he said. “As a young man, I believe the youth should also be represented in the Senate. It is an opportunity for me to serve our people in that capacity.”
Addressing concerns about the timing of his ambition following the recent death of the sitting senator, Ishaya clarified that his focus is firmly on the 2027 elections and not any immediate contest.
“Death is inevitable and very unfortunate. We are not looking at contesting now; we are looking at 2027,” he explained.
Ishaya disclosed that he plans to contest under the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
He described the late Senator Godiya Akwashiki as a mentor who had laid a solid foundation for development in the district, noting that his aspiration is not to replace but to continue and expand on that legacy.
“He was a mentor and one of the best senators we have had in Nasarawa North. He laid a path, and it is now left for us to follow that path and continue the good work he started,” Ishaya said.
Although he did not serve directly under the late senator, Ishaya said he admired his leadership and drew inspiration from his commitment to the people.
Beyond politics, Ishaya highlighted his professional background as an architect and pointed to his record of humanitarian activities across the district. According to him, these initiatives include scholarships for students and relief support for widows and orphans.
“The last scholarship disbursement we did covered 300 students, while about 150 widows benefited from our support,” he stated, adding that the interventions were carried out through partnerships he initiated.
Looking ahead, Ishaya said his goal is to scale up these efforts and institutionalize people-centered programs if elected, building on an existing development blueprint and taking it “to a greater level.”
