10 things you need to know about late Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga, Nigeria’s Deputy Chief Whip
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The nation has lost ones of it’s honourable leaders. The sudden demise of Otunba Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga, fondly known as Ijaya, has been a devastating news to Nigerians.
Adewumi was the deputy chief whip of the house, a warrior in politics, a champion for women, and a dedicated public servant, her loss is deeply felt. The Ogun State governor described her death as as a colossal loss to the state and the country as a whole.
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Here are 10 things to know about her
Unique backaground
She was born on December 2, 1965, in Hammersmith, London. The late Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga’s upbringing was a blend of Nigerian culture and British influence, a duality that shaped her into a leader who could seamlessly bridge worlds. Despite her international birth, her heart belonged to Ogun State, where she became a beacon of hope for her people.
A political powerhouse
In 2019, Onanuga broke into the political spotlight when she was elected to represent the Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency of Ogun State in the House of Representatives. Her leadership style was bold, passionate, and uncompromising—traits that earned her the nickname Ijaya (The Fearless One). In 2023, she was appointed Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, a role that positioned her as a key figure in legislative proceedings. She was a bridge builder, skillfully navigating Nigeria’s political complexities to ensure her constituency was heard.
A Champion for Women
Onanuga was not just a politician; she was an advocate. As the Chairperson of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development during the 9th Assembly, she fought tirelessly for the rights of women and the marginalized.
She also believed that true development could only be achieved when women were empowered. Her policies and initiatives reflected this belief, as she worked to create opportunities for women in business, politics, and education.
Strong party member
She was a dedicated member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nigeria’s ruling party, through which she pursued her political aspirations. She remained loyal to the Bola Tinubu led administration till her passing.
An entrepreneurial Woman
While many knew her for her political achievements, Onanuga was also a successful entrepreneur. Though much of her business endeavors remained private, she embodied the spirit of resilience and innovation, inspiring young Nigerians to dream big.
A True Daughter of Ogun State
Despite her global exposure, Onanuga’s loyalty to Ogun State remained unwavering. She worked tirelessly to bring development to her home state, earning the love and respect of her people. The Ogun State governor sees her loss as a colossal one.
A defining nickname
The name Ijaya was not just a title but a reflection of her personality. In Yoruba, it means “The Fearless One,” and she embodied that in every aspect of her life—whether it was speaking boldly in parliament or standing up for what she believed in.
A sudden death
Onanuga’s death came as a shock. At 59, she still had much to offer, both to her constituency and to Nigeria as a whole. She had just celebrated her birthday a month earlier, and her plans for the new year were brimming with hope and vision. Her passing is a stark reminder of life’s fragility, but her legacy is a reminder of its possibilities.
A voice for the marginalized
Onanuga was not just a politician for the elite. She fought for the voiceless, ensuring that the needs of the underrepresented in her constituency were prioritized. From health initiatives to community development projects, she was always at the forefront of change.
A last legacy
Otunba Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga’s life was a masterclass in perseverance, service, and authenticity. She proved that women could not only occupy spaces in politics but thrive and lead in them.
Her constituents will remember her for the roads she helped repair, the schools she improved, and the countless lives she touched. Her colleagues will remember her for her fiery debates, her unwavering integrity, and her ability to bring light to the darkest corners of policymaking.
In the end, Ijaya was more than a politician. She was a daughter, a mother, a friend, and an inspiration. Her story reminds us that true greatness isn’t in the titles we hold but in the lives we touch and the changes we make.
Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga may no longer be with us, but her spirit lives on in the hearts of those who knew her and the nation she served so passionately. Rest in power, Ijaya. You will never be forgotten.
