Residents of Plateau State have expressed their disapproval of Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s comments made during the burial of Prof. Nentawe Yilwada’s mother, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The comments, which were perceived as insensitive, were made at the funeral service held at the COCIN Headquarters in Jos on October 4, 2025.

During his speech, Akpabio told the grieving Yilwada that his mother had chosen the right time to die. Many attendees and social media users felt that these remarks were inconsiderate, especially given the somber occasion. The comments sparked outrage, with some individuals taking to social media to express their dismay. Critics argued that Akpabio’s statement was thoughtless and demonstrated a lack of empathy for the bereaved family.

The controversy surrounding Akpabio’s comments has been further complicated by allegations that the APC leaders, including President Bola Tinubu, had politicized the funeral. Some observers believe that the party’s presence at the event was an attempt to gain traction in the state ahead of the 2027 elections.

Social media users have been vocal in their criticism of Akpabio’s remarks, with many describing them as distasteful and inhuman. One user, David Akpa, wrote that the comments were “quite insensitive and derogatory,” while another user, Ishaku Dakas, stated that Akpabio’s statements were not surprising, given his history of speaking without considering the repercussions.

The backlash against Akpabio’s comments highlights the importance of sensitive communication, particularly in times of mourning. As a public figure, Akpabio’s words carry significant weight, and his remarks have been widely criticized for being inappropriate and hurtful. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for politicians to be mindful of their words and actions, especially in sensitive situations.