23/01/2026
The death of Senator Godiya Akwashiki on December 31, 2025, in an Indian hospital at the age of 52 has created a vacancy in the Nasarawa North Senatorial District seat.
Akwashiki, who represented the district under the Social Democratic Party (SDP) since his election in 2019 and re-election in 2023, was known for his grassroots projects and commitment to national unity.
His passing has prompted discussions about potential successors, with calls mounting for Hon. Labaran Maku, a seasoned politician from the district, to enter the forthcoming bye-election. This analysis explores why Maku should consider contesting, drawing on his political track record, local ties, and the broader needs of Nasarawa North. It balances his strengths with potential challenges, based on his career trajectory and recent public sentiments.Maku's Political Background and Relevance to Nasarawa NorthBorn on January 1, 1962, in Wakama District of Nassarawa Eggon Local Government Area (LGA), Maku hails directly from Nasarawa North Senatorial District, which comprises Akwanga, Nassarawa Eggon, and Wamba LGAs.
As an Eggon native, he has deep ethnic and cultural roots in the zone, which has historically been marked by communal tensions, such as those between Eggon and Alago groups.
These ties position him as a homegrown candidate capable of addressing local issues like inter-group relations and development disparities.Maku's political journey began in journalism and student activism before transitioning to public service. He served as Commissioner for Information, Youth, and Sports in Nasarawa State from 1999 to 2002, followed by Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs from 2002 to 2003.
He then rose to Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State from 2003 to 2007, overseeing key state agencies and contributing to early governance structures in the relatively young state (created in 1996).
On the national stage, he was appointed Minister of State for Information and Communications in 2010, becoming the substantive Minister of Information from December 2010 to 2015, and briefly served as Supervising Minister of Defense.
His tenure as Information Minister involved promoting government policies and media reforms, showcasing his communication skills and policy expertise.Maku's party affiliations reflect adaptability: He started with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), switched to the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in 2014 to contest the 2015 governorship (where he lost), and returned to PDP in 2022.
In 2022, he declared for the 2023 Nasarawa governorship under PDP but did not secure the ticket.
Recently, he was inducted into the PDP Board of Trustees, solidifying his influence within the party.
This history equips him with cross-party networks, valuable in Nigeria's fluid political landscape.Key Reasons Why Maku Should ContestExtensive Experience and Proven Leadership: Maku's decades in governance make him a strong fit for the Senate. As a former deputy governor and federal minister, he has hands-on experience in policy formulation, oversight, and implementation—skills essential for senatorial duties like legislation, constituency projects, and committee work.
Akwashiki chaired the Senate Committee on Air Force, focusing on security and development; Maku could build on this, leveraging his defense oversight background to advocate for Nasarawa North's needs, such as infrastructure in rural areas like Nassarawa Eggon and Wamba. His admirers highlight his "vision, political acumen, and experience" to elevate the district, contrasting with less seasoned candidates.
Strong Grassroots Connection and Popularity: Public calls for Maku to run have intensified since Akwashiki's death, with constituents rallying for his candidacy due to his "deep connection to the people of Nasarawa North."
Social media and local forums emphasize his Eggon heritage and past roles in state development, positioning him as a "statesman" who gave Nasarawa a "positive start."
In a district plagued by communal conflicts, Maku's local roots could foster unity and address fractured inter-group relations.
His oratory skills and media background would aid in amplifying the zone's voices in Abuja, potentially attracting federal projects like roads, healthcare, and education—areas where Akwashiki made strides but left gaps.
Party Dynamics and Electoral Viability: As a PDP stalwart, Maku could capitalize on the party's structure in Nasarawa, where it has historical strength despite recent APC dominance (Governor Abdullahi Sule is APC).
The vacancy arises from an SDP seat, opening a multi-party contest; Maku's cross-party experience (including APGA) could broaden his appeal. Recent analyses note growing battles for the seat ahead of 2027, with governors like Sule eyeing influence, but Maku's independence and BOT role might position him as a counterweight.
Supporters argue he is the "only credible candidate" for impactful representation.
Potential for Development and Legacy Building: Nasarawa North faces challenges like insecurity, poverty, and underdevelopment. Maku's track record in information and governance suggests he could prioritize empowerment programs, similar to Akwashiki's initiatives.
At 64, he remains energetic, and contesting could cement his legacy as a bridge between state and federal levels. Calls describe him as "best for the job," urging him to "answer the clarion call" for sustainable development.
Potential Challenges and CounterargumentsWhile compelling, Maku's candidacy isn't without hurdles. Critics question his tangible impacts during past roles, asking what he has "brought to Eggon Nation" as deputy governor or minister.
Some fear he might decamp to APC for "sustainable development," eroding trust.
Ethnic tensions in the district could complicate his appeal beyond Eggon communities, and competition from figures backed by Governor Sule might intensify.
Additionally, his multiple governorship bids (2015, 2023) without victory raise questions about electability in a bye-election.However, these can be mitigated: Maku's oversight of state agencies as deputy governor contributed to foundational policies, and his national exposure provides leverage over local rivals.
His return to PDP and BOT induction signal commitment, potentially unifying opposition forces.ConclusionHon. Labaran Maku's entry into the Nasarawa North senatorial race would be a strategic move, leveraging his experience, local roots, and political networks to fill the void left by Akwashiki. In a district needing effective representation amid Nigeria's challenges, Maku's profile aligns with demands for visionary leadership. While challenges exist, the growing calls from constituents underscore his viability.
Contesting could not only advance Nasarawa North's interests but also reinforce democratic responsiveness in the zone. Ultimately, Maku should heed these calls if he aims to extend his public service legacy.
