Condolences, tributes and emotions continue to flow following the demise of the House of Representative Chief whip, Adewunmi Onanuga, who died on Wednesday.

Notable Nigerians which included Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, his predecessor, Senator Otunba Gbenga, and the 2023 Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate in the state, Oladipupo Adebutu, among others have mourned the lawmaker.

Mr Abiodun stated that the lawmaker’s death was a shocking and devastating incident. 

He noted that she was a fearless leader and loyal party member who was a great mobiliser until her final days.

Mr Abiodun added, “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. And 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.’’

On his part, Mr Adebutu in a statement on Wednesday, described Mrs Onanuga as an exceptional leader whose dedication to her people was evident. 

He stated “Hon. Onanuga was a trailblazer and an inspiration to many, especially women aspiring to leadership roles. Her unwavering commitment to the well-being of her constituents and her ability to create meaningful change will be remembered for years to come

Mr Adebutu extended his sympathy to the deceased’s immediate family and the people of Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North constituency, offering prayers for divine strength and comfort during this period of grief.

The statement indicated, “May the Almighty grant her eternal rest and give her loved ones the strength to navigate this profound loss. Her legacy of service and dedication will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched.”

A former governor of Ogun State, Senator Gbenga Daniel, described “Mrs Onanguga as 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.”

Mr Daniel also described Mrs Onanuga as a great inspiration for women aspirations, embodied an unquenchable “Can do” spirit, was full of life and attracted a great deal of respect. 

Also, ex-governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, described Mrs Onanuga’s death as loss of an illustrious indigene of Remoland in Ogun State, a vibrant lawmaker, and a committed grassroots politician who made impactful contributions to the development of Remoland and Ogun State.

“It saddens my heart that ‘Ijaya,’ as she was fondly called, would succumb to death at a time when her expertise, experience, and service are still needed at her constituency, Ogun State and the National Assembly. A two-term lawmaker and deputy chief whip of the 10th House of Representatives, Ijaya demonstrated passion and performance in her legislative functions” Mr Amosun added.

Also, a lawmaker representing Yewa North/Imeko Afon Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Gboyega Isiaka, described his late colleague as a trailblazer and a woman of the people who was always full of life, and articulate in her representation of her constituency in the House.

He stated, “She carried out her duties with grace and determination that will no doubt inspire many others to follow in her footsteps. To the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, and the entire leadership of the House of Representatives – we have lost a vital voice in our chamber, a colleague whose contributions strengthened our democracy.”