The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, and a former governor of the state, Senator Gbenga Daniel, have expressed their grief over the passing of the House of Representatives member representing Remo Federal Constituency, Mrs. Adewunmi Onanuga.
Both leaders, in separate statements, described her death as an immense loss to Ogun State and Nigeria.
Onanuga, 59, who served as the Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, passed away on Wednesday in a hospital in the United Kingdom after battling an illness for over two months.
In a condolence statement, Governor Abiodun called the news of her death devastating and shocking, emphasizing her significant contributions to Ogun State and the nation.
He said, “I sincerely sympathise 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.”
Similarly, Senator Daniel expressed profound sadness at the passing of the lawmaker, whom he described as a trusted ally, a younger sister, and an exceptional politician.
He said, “She was a close confidant and Associate who reposed so much confidence in me, and her painful passage could not have come at a more painful moment for me because I seem to have lost a younger sister.
“I might have lost the right words to capture this sad moment, but I believe she has only gone to take her much-needed rest with her Maker, though too soon, too sudden, and very much unexpected.
“Remoland has lost a great inspiration for women’s aspirations as she embodied an unquenchable ‘Can Do’ spirit, always full of life and attracted a great deal of respect. She was not just a politician, but one with a remarkable difference, making her impact felt wherever she found herself.
“I will surely miss her. Sagamu and Remoland, no doubt, is mourning, but we will take solace in the guiding Light of her Never-yielding spirit and pray that the family she left behind should find comfort to bear her painful passage.”
Fondly known as Ijaya, Onanuga was celebrated for her fearless leadership, loyalty, and dedication to advancing the welfare of her constituents and promoting women’s participation in politics. Her passing leaves a significant void in both Ogun State and the country.
