The hallowed chambers of the House of Representatives resonated with grief and heartfelt tributes as members convened for a special valedictory session to honor their departed colleagues. The 10th Assembly, under the stewardship of Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, had suffered the loss of several members, each departure leaving an irreplaceable void in the legislative body. The somber ceremony provided a poignant space for remembrance, reflection, and a celebration of the lives and legacies of those who had dedicated themselves to public service.
The roll call of departed members painted a picture of lives cut short, each individual having contributed uniquely to the nation’s legislative landscape. Adewunmi Onanuga, a representative from Ogun State and the immediate past Deputy Chief Whip, passed away in January 2025. Abdulkadir Danbuga, representing Sokoto State, died in October 2023. Isa Dogonyaro, a lawmaker from Jigawa State, passed away in May 2024. Olaide Akinremi, representing Oyo State, and Ekene Adams, representing Kaduna State, both met untimely ends in July 2024. The shared grief underscored the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the moments spent in service to the nation.
The tributes that flowed forth were a testament to the impact these lawmakers had made during their time in office. Former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, speaking on behalf of Isa Dogonyaro’s family, highlighted the late lawmaker’s unwavering commitment to integrity and his abhorrence of corruption. Dogonyaro’s dedication to justice and fairness, Sirika emphasized, was a defining characteristic of his life, both public and private. This unwavering commitment to ethical conduct, it was noted, even led him to serve in the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), further solidifying his reputation as a man of principle.
Francis Waive, Chairman of the House Committee on Rules and Business, shared anecdotes that revealed Dogonyaro’s diligent nature and unwavering commitment to legislative duties. He recalled Dogonyaro’s unwavering attendance at committee trainings and events, painting a picture of a man dedicated to continuous learning and improvement. Waive’s poignant remarks also underscored the demanding nature of public service and urged his colleagues to prioritize their health and well-being, a sobering reminder amidst the grief. Dogonyaro’s daughter, Laila, delivered a moving tribute, describing her father’s integrity as not merely a slogan but a way of life, a testament to the profound impact he had on those closest to him.
The tributes for Ekene Adams, the Kaduna lawmaker, highlighted his remarkable ability to transcend cultural and religious divides, a true embodiment of the Nigerian spirit. Growing up in Kaduna with a Muslim father and a Christian mother, he married a Yoruba woman, demonstrating his commitment to unity and inclusivity. His son, Kelvin, described his father as a man driven by service, particularly emphasizing his passion for football as a unifying force. Adams’ diverse background and dedication to bridge-building resonated deeply with his colleagues, underscoring the power of unity in a diverse nation.
Adewunmi Onanuga, remembered as a hero by former Speaker Patricia Etteh, was lauded for her willingness to extend a helping hand and her leadership within the South-West caucus. Etteh’s words painted a picture of a strong and influential woman who navigated the complex political landscape with grace and determination. The wife of Olaide Akinremi, Adama, in a heartfelt plea, urged whoever succeeded her husband to uphold his legacy of prioritizing the welfare of his constituents, a testament to the impact he had on the lives of those he served. The collective mourning transcended political affiliations, highlighting the shared human experience of loss and the enduring impact of lives dedicated to public service.
