The House of Representatives have announced the passing of 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.
She passed away earlier today, January 15, 2025, after a brief illness.
According to a statement by the House Spokesperson Rep Akin Rotimi, Rep 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 All Progressives Congress (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.
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.
“Funeral arrangements will be announced by her family in due course. May her soul rest in perfect peace, and may her legacy continue to inspire generations to come
Meanwhile, Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has sympathized with the family of the late member of the House of Representatives representing Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga, popularly known as “Ijaya,” in political circles.
Onanuga, who until her passing served as the Deputy Chief Whip in the Green Chamber, reportedly died early Wednesday morning after a brief illness.
In a condolence message, Governor Abiodun described the passing of the late lawmaker as devastating and shocking, noting that her death is a monumental loss to Ogun State in particular and Nigeria as a whole.
The governor eulogized the deceased as a fearless leader, a loyal party member, and a great mobilizer who contributed immensely to the advancement of women and the general well-being of her constituents until her final days.
He prayed for the repose of her soul and for strength for the family she left behind to bear the irreplaceable loss.
“I sincerely sympathize with the leadership of the House of Representatives, led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen and the entire members of the lower chamber on the passing of Rt. Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga.
“Without mincing words, her death came as a rude shock to all of us in Ogun State. It was both devastating and sudden; we have truly lost an extraordinary amazon.
“Her courage was exemplary, and her loyalty was exceptional. We will sorely miss her. However, we take solace in her immense contributions to humanity and the good of all.
“May God Almighty rest her soul and grant her family the strength to endure this great loss,” Abiodun concluded.
