*Observes a Minute of Silence, Resolves to Attend Burial
By Editor
The Nigerian Senate has resolved to dispatch a high-powered delegation to condole with the family of late Senator Joseph Iorshagher Akaagerger, as well as the government and people of Benue State, particularly the Benue North-East Senatorial District, following his recent demise.
This resolution was part of proceedings on Wednesday, following the adoption of a motion titled “Demise of Senator Joseph Iorshagher Akaagerger (1956–2025)”, sponsored by Senator Emmanuel Udende (APC, Benue North-East). The Senate also observed a minute of silence in honour of the late statesman.
Presenting the motion, Senator Udende noted with deep sorrow the passing of Senator Akaagerger on May 19, 2025, at the age of 69. He described the deceased as a distinguished Nigerian who had served the country with honour as a military officer, legal luminary, and federal legislator.
Senator Akaagerger was born on May 5, 1956, in Iber-Gaar, Konshisha Local Government Area of Benue State. He began his military career at the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1976 and proceeded to the prestigious Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, UK, where he was commissioned as an officer between 1977 and 1979.
His military postings included:
Adjutant, 3 Provost Battalion, Jos (1983–1985)
Officer Commanding, D Company, 231 Battalion, Maiduguri (1986–1987)
Commanding Officer, 195 Battalion, Ojo Cantonment, Lagos (1990–1991)
Deputy Chief Instructor, Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji (1991–1994)
During Nigeria’s transition to democracy, he served as the Military Administrator of Katsina State (1998–1999), where he played a stabilising role.
Following his retirement from the military, Akaagerger pursued a successful legal career, earning an LLB and LLM from the University of Jos and a PhD in International Economic Law from Ahmadu Bello University. He was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1987 and founded the law firm J.I. Akaagerger & Co. (Ambe Chambers).
In 2007, he was elected to represent Benue North-East in the 6th Senate under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), serving on several committees and contributing significantly to debates on national security, justice reform, and governance. He also served as the Publicity Secretary of the Northern Senators Forum.
A traditional titleholder, he was known as Ambe u Konshisha and was an active trustee of the Jichira Development Association, promoting community development and peacebuilding.
The Senate described him as a “principled patriot” who embodied discipline, humility, and service above self.
Senator Akaagerger is survived by his wife, Chief (Mrs.) Joyce Mbafan Akaagerger, and their children.
