Late Reps deputy whip, champion of women empowerment -Minister

Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has described the passing of the Deputy Chief Whip of the Federal House of Representatives, Adewunmi Onanuga, who represented the Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency of Ogun State, as a great loss.

According to the minister, Onanuga’s death was shocking and devastating. She would be greatly missed for her contributions to governance and her role as a strong advocate for women’s inclusion in politics.

Hajiya Sulaiman-Ibrahim also condoled the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, the Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abass, and the good people of Ikenne, Sagamu Remo, which she represented.

The statement signed by the Minister’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Jonathan Eze, on Thursday reads in parts:

“On behalf of the Ministry of Women Affairs, I express my deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga, the Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, who passed away yesterday after a brief illness.

“As a champion of women empowerment and social welfare, Hon. Onanuga’s contributions to the 9th and 10th National Assembly will never be forgotten. Her leadership and intellect earned her admiration from colleagues and constituents alike.

“I am not unaware of her several initiatives aimed at promoting women’s rights and empowerment. Her passion and dedication to the cause were inspiring, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of women leaders.

“I mourn the loss of a true advocate for women’s empowerment and a dedicated politician.”

Onanuga passed away on January 15, 2025, after a brief illness.

Born on December 2, 1965, Onanuga was first elected to the House in 2019 on the platform of the All Progressives Congress. She served as Chairperson of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development in the 9th Assembly and was re-elected in 2023, taking on the role of Deputy Chief Whip in the 10th Assembly.