The acting National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Sadiq Gombe, along with the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Adewole Adebayo, received the remains of late Senator Godiya Akwashiki at Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport on Monday.

Senator Akwashiki, who represented Nasarawa North, passed away on December 31, 2025, at a hospital in India after battling a prolonged illness. His body was transported back to Nigeria for burial.

Notably absent at the Cargo Terminal were the Senate President, Godwill Akpabio, and other Senate leaders. In their place, the reception was attended by former Nasarawa State Governor Umaru Al-Makura, House Committee on Solid Minerals Chairman Jonathan Gaza Gbefwi, former Minister of Information Labaran Makun, alongside other party officials and political figures.

Addressing journalists, Sadiq Gombe described the loss of Senator Akwashiki as monumental. “It is a profound loss not only for his constituents but also for the SDP and Nigeria as a whole,” he said.

Gombe also explained the absence of sitting senators, noting, “The senators are currently on recess. We share in the grief of his family and the nation.”

Similarly, Adewole Adebayo paid tribute to the late senator, calling him a man of great character. “Anyone familiar with Senator Godiya Akwashiki knows he was an exceptional leader. His passing is deeply felt across the state. As a country with relatively few senators, his death leaves a significant void,” he remarked.