Outrage as Senate President Akpabio Faces Backlash Over ‘Insensitive’ Remarks at Prof. Nentawe’s Mother’s Funeral
Story: written by Myra Chinonso October 6,2025
Residents of Plateau State have expressed outrage over comments made by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during the funeral of the late mother of Prof. Nentawe Yilwada, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
During his speech at the burial ceremony, held on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) Headquarters, Jos, Akpabio reportedly told the grieving Yilwada that his mother had “chosen the right time to die.”
The statement, perceived by many as insensitive and disrespectful, has drawn widespread condemnation from residents and social media users who accused the Senate President of making light of a solemn occasion.
Critics alleged that Akpabio and other APC leaders, including President Bola Tinubu, who attended the event, turned the burial into a political show aimed at boosting the party’s influence ahead of the 2027 elections.
“I don’t understand what the Senate President meant by saying that. It was heartless to make such a remark when the family was in mourning,” David Akpa wrote on Facebook.
Another user, Ishaku Dakas, said he was not surprised, describing Akpabio as someone “known for making careless statements without considering their impact.”
“Public speaking and discretion have never been his strong points. Making such a comment to a man burying his mother was totally thoughtless,” Dakas added.
Polycarp Sanda also faulted the statement, saying, “No one chooses when to die. His comment was distasteful and showed a lack of empathy.”
Similarly, Matthew Kalamu expressed disappointment, accusing Akpabio of trying to make a joke at an inappropriate time. “He must have thought it was funny, but it was insensitive and disappointing,” he said.
John Sabo, another resident, described the remark as “callous and inhuman,” urging the Senate President to exercise more discretion in his public utterances.
