Plateau Residents Slam Akpabio Over ‘Insensitive’ Comments at Nentawe’s Mother’s Burial

Residents of Plateau State have criticised Senate President Godswill Akpabio over comments he made during the burial of the late mother of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwada.

Akpabio, while speaking at the funeral service held on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the COCIN Headquarters in Jos, reportedly told Nentawe that his mother “chose the right time to die.”

The statement drew outrage from many residents who described it as insensitive and disrespectful, especially at a time when the Yilwada family was mourning the loss of their matriarch.

Some social media users also accused Akpabio and other APC leaders, including President Bola Tinubu, of turning the solemn event into a political rally as part of efforts to capture Plateau State in 2027.

“I don’t know what the Senate President meant by such comments at a time the family is mourning their beloved mother. To me, that was quite insensitive and derogatory. He should be mindful of his words,” wrote David Akpa on Facebook.

Another resident, Ishaku Dakas, said Akpabio’s remarks did not surprise him. “Public speaking and circumspection have never been the forte of Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Imagine saying this to a man who is burying his beloved mother. That was quite thoughtless,” he stated.

Similarly, Polycarp Sanda condemned the comment, saying, “Does anyone choose the time he or she would die? The Senate President’s remarks were really distasteful. He should learn how to speak in public.”

Matthew Kalamu added, “That man has been known to speak before thinking and the comments at Mama’s funeral topped it for me. He must have thought he was making a funny joke, but I was highly disappointed.”

Another resident, John Sabo, described Akpabio’s words as “not just callous but inhuman.”

Many Plateau residents have since called on public officials to show more sensitivity and restraint when speaking at solemn occasions.

Titilope Adako

Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.

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