The Senate on Tuesday suspended plenary proceedings in honour of the late Senator Godiya Akwashiki, who represented Nasarawa North Senatorial District until his death on December 31, 2025.

Plenary had barely commenced when the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, formally announced the passing of the lawmaker to his colleagues, describing the development as a painful loss to the National Assembly and the country at large.

Akpabio paid glowing tribute to the late senator, portraying him as a dedicated public servant who carried out his legislative responsibilities with diligence, humility and an unwavering sense of duty to the Nigerian people. According to the Senate President, Akwashiki’s contributions to legislative work reflected his deep commitment to national service and institutional development.

Recalling his career in the upper legislative chamber, Akpabio noted that the late lawmaker served as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Labour during the 9th Senate, where he played a key role in matters relating to workers’ welfare and industrial relations. He later served as chair of the Senate Committee on Air Force in the 10th Senate, overseeing legislative oversight and policy engagement in the defence aviation sector.

The Senate President also informed the chamber that Senator Akwashiki had since been laid to rest, adding that his legacy of service would continue to be remembered by colleagues and constituents alike.

In honour of the departed senator, members of the Red Chamber observed a one-minute silence as a final mark of respect. The solemn moment reflected the chamber’s mood, as lawmakers bowed their heads in tribute to a colleague whose life and service were cut short.

Following the tribute, the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (Ekiti Central), invoked Senate tradition by moving a motion to step down all items listed on the Order Paper for the day. He said the decision was in recognition of the loss suffered by the chamber and in keeping with parliamentary customs when a serving or former member passes on.

Bamidele further disclosed that the Senate would announce a later date for a special sitting dedicated to honouring the late senator. He explained that the session would provide an opportunity for lawmakers to pay formal tributes, with members of Senator Akwashiki’s family expected to be present.

The motion was seconded by the Deputy Minority Leader, Senator Oyewunmi Olalere, who associated himself with the tributes paid to the late lawmaker.

Thereafter, Senator Akpabio adjourned plenary, announcing that the Senate would reconvene on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.