Senate President Akpabio mourns police dispatch rider killed

A tragic accident involving a fuel tanker and the convoy of Senate President Godswill Akpabio has resulted in the death of a police dispatch rider, Ibrahim Hussaini. The incident occurred in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, shortly after the Senate President’s convoy picked him up from the airport. Akpabio announced the news during a plenary session on Tuesday, expressing his condolences to the family of the fallen officer. Hussaini, a Deputy Superintendent of Police, was part of Akpabio’s security detail since 2023 and was expected to retire next year. He is survived by two wives and four children. The Senate President revealed that Hussaini was buried in Kogi State earlier that morning and offered to employ two of his senior children in any parastatal or his private concerns. The accident has brought attention to the risks faced by dispatch riders, who are typically police personnel, escorting senior government officials on motorcycles marked for official use. Akpabio’s convoy was traveling in Oyo State for the installation of a colleague when the crash occurred. In a related development, Senator Sunday Karimi raised a motion on personal explanation to formally present the matter to the Senate. He also informed lawmakers of the death of Ibrahim Tukur, a long-serving driver attached to Senator Isah Jibrin. Tukur reportedly passed away at his home on Saturday after 25 years of service. The Senate session concluded with a minute of silence in honor of both deceased staff members. The incident highlights the sacrifices made by individuals in the line of duty and the importance of recognizing their contributions. The Senate’s gesture is a testament to the respect and appreciation for the service of Hussaini and Tukur. The incident will likely prompt a review of safety measures for dispatch riders and other personnel escorting senior government officials.