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By Tracy Moses
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, on Tuesday, led Members in an emotional session dedicated to honoring the memories of five lawmakers who passed away while still in active service to the nation.
Presiding over the solemn sitting, Speaker Abbas emphasized that the legacy left by the late legislators serves as a powerful reminder that holding public office is not a personal entitlement but a temporary trust, bestowed for the greater good of history and humanity.
“The loss of Rt. Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga, fondly known as ‘Ijaya,’ Hon. Abdulkadir Jelani Danbuga, Hon. Isa Dogonyaro, Hon. Olaide Adewale Akinremi, widely called ‘Jagaban,’ and Hon. Ekene Abubakar Adams, endearingly referred to as ‘The Youngest,’ has deeply affected us and created a void that cannot be easily filled,” Abbas said.
He praised the deceased lawmakers as distinguished patriots who approached their legislative duties with sincerity, commitment, and an unwavering passion for national development. Though they may no longer sit among their colleagues, Abbas noted, their ideals and contributions continue to resonate within the chamber and beyond.
“‘Ijaya’ was a tireless advocate for women’s rights and education, leaving a transformative legacy in Ogun State. Danbuga, though he served for a short period, displayed a calm strength and an unshakeable dedication to duty,” Abbas recalled.
He went on: “Dogonyaro personified integrity in every responsibility he was assigned, be it on national security or health matters, demonstrating that true leadership often lies in steady, honest service. Jagaban combined innovation and public duty, showing how enterprise can complement governance. Ekene’s vibrance, molded by his background in sports, translated into dynamic engagement in legislative affairs.”
Speaker Abbas used the occasion to reflect on the brevity of life, encouraging his fellow lawmakers to approach their duties with renewed purpose. “Each new day is an opportunity to impact lives. We must seize it with intention and commitment, knowing our work today will shape the destiny of tomorrow,” he urged.
He extended heartfelt sympathies to the families of the departed legislators, assuring them that their loved ones’ memories will continue to guide the House. “We will remember them not just through plaques or ceremonies, but in every life improved by their work and every value they stood for,” he added.
Abbas also challenged Members to honour their departed colleagues by redoubling their dedication to legislative excellence, transparency, and empathy.
“Let every motion, every contribution, and every policy reflect the principles these great men and woman embodied,” he said.
The House observed a moment of remembrance through the reading of their profiles, recollections of their achievements, and personal tributes from fellow lawmakers who shared moments with them in the chamber, in committees, and in friendship.