Reps pay tribute to deceased members at valedictory session

The House of Representatives on Tuesday held a solemn valedictory session in honour of members who passed away since the inauguration of the 10th Assembly on June 13, 2023.

The late members include Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga, who served as Deputy Chief Whip and died in January 2025; Hon. Abdulkadir Jelani Danbuga from Sokoto, who passed away in 2023 shortly after the Assembly was inaugurated; as well as Hon. Isa Dogonyaro, Hon. Olaide Adewale Akinremi, and Hon. Ekene Abubakar Adams, all of whom died in 2024.

Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, described the losses as deeply painful, stating that the deaths had left a void in the deliberations of the House.

He said: “Each of these members served with distinction, passion, and tireless dedication to their country and constituents. Though their voices are now silent, the ideals they championed continue to resonate within these walls and in the communities they uplifted.”

Reflecting on the life and service of each lawmaker, the Speaker noted that Hon. Onanuga’s steadfast advocacy for women’s empowerment and education brought transformational change to Ogun State.

“Her electoral victories were matched only by her generosity of spirit and her commitment to mentoring emerging leaders,” he said.

On Hon. Danbuga, he remarked: “Though his tenure was short, his devotion to the Isa/Sabon Birni Federal Constituency in Sokoto State was unwavering, showing that impact is measured not in years served but in courage demonstrated daily.”

He described Hon. Isa Dogonyaro as a man of impeccable integrity who served on key committees, including those on national security and public health, “reminding us that leadership is most often expressed through action rather than words.”

The Speaker extolled Hon. Akinremi, fondly known as “Jagaban”, for his entrepreneurial drive which bridged commerce and public service, while Hon. Ekene Adams was remembered for channelling his youthful energy—once displayed on the football field—into vibrant and resilient legislative work.

“Their collective legacy reminds us that our authority is not a birthright, but a sacred trust borrowed for a fleeting moment in history,” Abbas said. Quoting American philosopher William James, he added: “‘The greatest use of a life is to spend it on something that will outlast it.’ Another thinker said, ‘Life becomes more meaningful when we realise we will never get the same moment twice.’”

He called on lawmakers to recommit themselves to their duties with purpose and urgency, adding: “The laws we craft today will shape the futures of generations to come.”

To the families of the deceased members, he extended the condolences of the House, assuring them that their loved ones’ legacies would not be forgotten. “May you find comfort in knowing their service enriched our nation and that their unfinished dreams will continue to guide us.”

The Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, also paid tribute, describing the deceased lawmakers as passionate, dedicated individuals whose service transcended political boundaries.

“They were not merely lawmakers, but friends, mentors, and true representatives of their people,” he said. “Their voices may no longer echo in this Chamber, but their spirits inspire us to uphold justice, equality, and a shared commitment to the public good.”

Deputy Minority Leader, Hon. Aliyu Sani Madaki, was visibly emotional as he delivered his tribute to Hon. Dogonyaro. Similarly, the wife of the late Hon. Akinremi fought back tears while expressing gratitude to the House for honouring her husband and the other fallen members.

Former Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Patricia Etteh, shared a touching memory of her last conversation with Hon. Onanuga, which took place just days before her passing. She described her as a hardworking and loyal individual who rose to prominence through sheer perseverance.

The session closed with a reaffirmation of commitment by the House to continue the noble causes championed by the departed legislators, ensuring that their contributions to national development are remembered and built upon.

Tony Akowe