The Speaker of the House of Representatives has expressed his condolences over the death of the Deputy Chief Whip, Adewunmi Onanuga, describing her as a pillar who would be sorely missed in the Green Chamber.
Onanuga, who represented Sagamu/Ikenne Federal Constituency Ogun State on the platform of the All Progressives Congress was serving her second term in the House before her demise on Wednesday after a brief illness. She was aged 59.
The Speaker, who said he led members of the House in support and prayers for the deceased during her health challenge, described her eventual death as painful.
A statement issued on Thursday by the Special Adviser to the Speaker on Media and Publicity, Musa Krishi lauded Onanuga’s campaigns for gender equality, women empowerment, and inclusion in politics and governance, “Especially as Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Welfare in the 9th House and as principal officer in the 10th House.
Abbas also recalled how the deceased as the only female member in the leadership of the House, inspired and rallied female lawmakers “For the greater good of the chamber and the country by extension.”
The statement read in part, “Hon Onanuga was a brilliant woman, experienced politician, resourceful lawmaker, and a dependable ally in the legislative business. She was a dogged, dedicated, loyal, and patriotic Nigerian. She was not just a key member of the All Progressives Congress caucus but also the leadership of the House.
“I remember her roles in the fight for gender bills since the last Assembly, and how she rallied women from within and outside the chamber to get the support and buy-in of members on issues affecting women and children.”
Similarly, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu in a statement described Onanuga as a shining example of dedication, compassion, and selflessness and a a leader whose service to her constituents and the nation remained outstanding.
Kalu said, “Onanuga was a dedicated and committed lawmaker, renowned for her unwavering commitment to peace. Her passion for promoting harmony and understanding was truly commendable. But beyond her legislative accomplishments, Onanuga’s compassion, humility, and simplicity inspired countless individuals. Her warm and infectious smile, coupled with her empathetic nature, endeared her to everyone she met, making her a beloved figure in the lives of many.”