Senate President Godswill Akpabio has announced automatic employment for the two sons of his late police aide, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Hussani Ibrahim, who died in a tragic road accident. The announcement, made on the floor of the Senate, has triggered a wave of mixed reactions across Nigeria, highlighting broader concerns about welfare for security personnel.
A Compassionate Gesture on the Senate Floor
On Tuesday, December 23, 2025, Senator Akpabio informed his colleagues about the unfortunate death of his police rider. DSP Hussani Ibrahim lost his life in a road crash on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway the previous Sunday. The officer has since been buried according to Islamic rites.
While expressing deep sympathy to the officer's family, the Inspector General of Police, and the entire Nigeria Police Force, Akpabio disclosed the employment offer. He described it as a means of supporting the bereaved family and honouring the dedication and sacrifice of the fallen policeman.
Following his remarks, the Senate observed a minute of silence in honour of DSP Ibrahim, with lawmakers standing in solemn reflection and offering prayers for the repose of his soul.
Nigerians React with Praise and Criticism
The Senate President's gesture quickly became a topic of intense discussion on social media, with citizens expressing divergent views.
Many Nigerians praised Akpabio for his compassionate and humane action. They saw it as a fitting tribute to an officer who died in service. One user commented, "A touching reminder that the sacrifices of law enforcement officers should never be forgotten."
However, a significant number of commentators questioned the ad-hoc nature of the support. Their reactions pointed to a systemic issue:
- Some asked why such welfare benefits are not institutionalised for all security personnel who die in active service, rather than being dependent on the benevolence of individual public office holders.
- Others humorously yet critically noted the difficulty of securing jobs in the country, with one asking, "So if person no die no job for this country??"
- Further questions were raised about police deployment, with a user querying, "I thought all NPF were withdrawn from all public figures to help combat the insurgencies and kidnappings??"
The online debate underscored a widespread call for the federal government to strengthen and standardise welfare policies for the families of fallen officers.
Senate Mourns Another Loss
In a related development during the same session, the Senate also paid tribute to Alhaji Ibrahim Tukur, a driver who served the senator representing Kogi East, Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho, for about 25 years. Lawmakers praised his loyalty and dedication.
The Senate again observed a minute of silence, praying for both deceased individuals and for strength for their grieving families.
This incident has cast a spotlight on the risks taken by security personnel and support staff in the line of duty. While Akpabio's personal intervention has been widely noted, it has also fuelled a crucial national conversation about creating sustainable and equitable support systems for the families of those who die while serving the nation.
