***Vows to Serve, Continue late Akwashiki’s Legacy
A rising star from Nasarawa State, Honourable Duba Dodo Ishaya, a young architect and philanthropist, has announced his intention to contest the Nasarawa North Senatorial seat in 2027, pledging to prioritize service, youth inclusion, and the continuation of a legacy of good governance.
Speaking with journalists in Abuja on Monday, Ishaya was quick to clarify that his decision is not linked to the recent passing of the former senator Godiya Akwashiki
“We are not talking about contesting now. We are looking at 2027. Death is inevitable, and it was never something conceived because of the unfortunate loss we suffered,” he said.
Championing Youth
As a member of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Ishaya said his candidacy is motivated by the need for youth voices in the Senate.
“Outside being a youth, my motivation is purely service. It is an opportunity for me as a young man to serve our people to the best of my capacity,” he emphasized.
He described the late senator as a mentor who had already laid the groundwork for development in the senatorial district.
“If he were alive, he would have encouraged me to go ahead. He laid the path, and it is left for us to follow that blueprint and take the legacy to a greater level,” Ishaya said.
Although he did not serve under the late senator formally, Ishaya has carved a name for himself through direct humanitarian and social initiatives in Nasarawa North.
“We have given bursaries to students and provided relief support to widows and orphans. These are verifiable and available online,” he said.
His most recent scholarship programme benefitted 300 students, while 150 widows received financial and material assistance.
“This was our initiative, carried out in partnership with like-minded individuals,” Ishaya added.
Looking ahead, Ishaya promised to scale up his interventions if elected, leveraging legislative tools to expand opportunities for education, social welfare, and inclusive development.
“There is already a blueprint. What remains is continuity and expansion for the benefit of our people,” he concluded.
At just 35 years old, Ishaya represents a growing wave of young leaders in Nasarawa State determined to combine service, vision, and youthful energy in shaping the political future of their communities.
