House of Reps’ Deputy Chief Whip Adewunmi Onanuga is Dead, Details Surface

• Deputy chief whip of the Nigerian House of Representatives, Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga, has passed away
• Spokesman Akin Rotimi announced her death in a statement, saying she passed on January 15 after an illness
• Legit.ng reported that Onanuga represented the Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North federal constituency of Ogun state

Legit.ng journalist, Ridwan Adeola Yusuf, has over 9 years of experience covering politics and governance.

FCT, Abuja - Adewunmi Onanuga, the incumbent deputy chief whip of Nigeria's House of Representatives, has passed on.

Akin Rotimi, the spokesperson of the lower legislative chamber, announced Onanuga’s passing in a statement sent to Legit.ng on Wednesday night, January 15, 2024. The late federal lawmaker was aged 59.

Snapshot of late deputy chief whip Adewunmi Onanuga

Onanuga, popularly known as Ijaya, became the deputy chief whip in 2023. Until her death, she represented the Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North federal constituency of Ogun state in the green chamber.

Read also

Lagos: Is it true that Obasa cannot be impeached as speaker? Fact emerges

She was born in Hammersmith, London to Nigerian parents. A member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Onanuga was a prominent politician in Nigeria's southwest geopolitical zone.

Read the full statement from the House of Representatives below:

"It is with profound sorrow that the house of representatives announces the passing of Rt. Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga, who, until her demise, served as the deputy chief whip of the house, representing the Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency of Ogun state.

"Representative Onanuga, born on December 2, 1965, was a dedicated public servant, a visionary leader, and a passionate advocate for her constituents."

"She was first elected to the House in 2019 on the platform of the APC. During that tenure, she served as Chairperson of the House [Committee] on Women Affairs and Social Development in the 9th Assembly, where she championed policies to empower women and advance social welfare.

Read also

Breaking: Anxiety as Edo election tribunal suddenly relocates to Abuja amid PDP's quest to sack APC

"Re-elected in 2023, she was appointed Deputy Chief Whip of the 10th Assembly, a role in which she demonstrated exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to legislative discipline, particularly during parliamentary sittings.

"Affectionately known as 'Ijaya', Rep. Onanuga’s intellect, passion, humility, and drive for excellence earned her admiration among her colleagues and constituents alike.

"Her impactful contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape reflected her passion for creating a better society and her tireless dedication to public service."

"We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, associates, the Government and people of Ogun state - particularly the Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North constituency - and the entire membership of the national assembly.

"As we mourn the loss of this vibrant and committed lawmaker, whose life was devoted to improving the lives of Nigerians - especially her constituents - her legacy of service and dedication will continue to inspire future generations."

Netizens have reacted to the statement about Onanuga's passing, expressing their sorrow and condolences.

Read also

Tinubu announces fresh appointment, makes clarification on Yahaya Bello Wurno’s new mandate

E.J. commented:

"May her soul rest peacefully. Amen."

Benjamin Ibrahim Scholar remarked:

"May Almighty Allah grant her aljanah fridaus."

Former reps member Patigi dies

Legit.ng also reported that Ahman Patigi, a former House of Representatives member, passed away at the age of 59.

The late politician represented the Edu/Moro/Patigi federal constituency of Kwara state in three assemblies.

Patigi also chaired the House Committee on Water Resources in Nigeria's 8th National Assembly.

Proofreading by Nkem Ikeke, journalist and copy editor at Legit.ng.

Source: Legit.ng