Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has condoled the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, and his family over the passing of his mother, Mama Lydia Yilwatda.
New Telegraph had earlier reported that Mama Lydia died on Sunday, August 17, 2025, at Jos University Teaching Hospital, at the age of 83.
Governor Alia described the death of Mama Lydia Yilwatda as a huge loss not only to her immediate family and Plateau State alone, but to Nigeria as a whole.
“On behalf of the government and people of Benue State, I extend my deepest condolences to Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda and his family on the loss of their beloved matriarch, Mama Lydia Yilwatda.
“Her passing leaves behind a void that is deeply felt, not only by her family but by all those whose lives she touched with her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering faith”, Alia stated.
He noted that Mama was a virtuous woman who exemplified the values of humility, resilience, and selfless service, leaving an indelible legacy in the hearts of her family, the Dungung community of Kanke, Plateau State and Nigeria as a whole, praising her as pillar of strength and a role model to many, particularly looking at her contributions to the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN).
“Her dedication to the spiritual and social growth of her community, alongside her late husband, Reverend Toma Goshwe Yilwatda, is a testament to her deep commitment to God and humanity. She nurtured her children with grace and instilled in them values that have shaped their successes and contributions to society,” the Governor added.
Governor Alia, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, urged the APC National Chairman and the entire Yilwatda family to find solace in the remarkable life Mama Lydia lived and the enduring legacies she leaves behind.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of Mama Lydia’s soul and extended his solidarity with the Yilwatda family during this moment of grief.
“As we mourn her passing, we take comfort in knowing that Mama Lydia lived a purposeful and impactful life. May God grant Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda and his family the strength to bear this loss, and may her soul find eternal rest in the bosom of the Lord,” he concludes.
