The family of Peter Ajang Azi, a former Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, confirmed his death on Thursday, August 13, 2026. A family spokesperson, John Daniel Azi, announced that the former lawmaker "peacefully joined his Lord" on that day.
Family Confirms the Passing of Former Speaker
In a statement, John Daniel Azi said: "With total submission to the will of God Almighty, the Azi Ajang Family announce the passing unto glory of their son, brother and father, Peter Ajang Azi, former Speaker, Plateau State House of Assembly." The family added that burial arrangements would be communicated at a later date.
Azi represented Jos North West in the Plateau State House of Assembly. He was elected Speaker on June 10, 2015, on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). His path to the position was marked by a dramatic tie-breaker vote.
Azi's Rise to Speaker and Impeachment
An initial ballot for the Speaker position ended in a 12-12 deadlock with his rival, Istifanus Mwansat, and the election was declared inconclusive. The matter was resolved the following day when Mwansat withdrew from the contest, clearing the way for Azi's emergence.
His tenure, however, ended abruptly. On July 11, 2018, the assembly voted to impeach him, with 17 of the 24 members backing his removal.
Lalong Mourns a Trusted Ally
Senator Simon Bako Lalong, who represents Plateau South Senatorial District and previously served as Governor of Plateau State, was among the first public figures to respond to the news. He described the death as a painful and devastating blow to Azi's family, his constituents, and the broader political community in Plateau State.
Lalong remembered Azi as a trusted political ally who remained committed to grassroots service and to the APC throughout his public life. He particularly noted the contributions Azi made to the development of Plateau State during his time as Speaker.
