By Mudashiru Olanrewaju
Laying to rest is a poignant expression that signifies the final farewell to a departed loved one, as their physical body is interred in its final resting place.
This profound ritual marks the end of one’s earthly journey, as family, friends, and community gather to pay their respects, share memories, and bid a last goodbye.
The ceremony is a vital part of the grieving process, allowing mourners to begin their journey toward healing and closure.
On Friday, 24thJanuary, 2025, a heartfelt gathering took place in Sagamu as dignitaries, family, and friends converged to lay to rest the late Rt. Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga, populary known as ‘Ijaya’ and Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was represented by his Chief of Staff, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila CFR, who led the procession of dignitaries, which included:
Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas GCON, Speaker, House of Representatives; the Governor of Ogun State, His Excellency Prince Dapo Abiodun CON; His Excellency Distinguished Senator Otunba (Engr.) Gbenga Daniel FNSE, former Governor of Ogun State and Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District; Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Isola OFR, (Baba Adinni of Ogun State and Yorubaland, Edo, and Delta States); Rt. Hon. Iziaq Abiodun Akinlade, (Baba Adinni of Yewaland and Member representing Yewa South/Ipokia Federal Constituency).
Tributes poured in as Rt. Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga, the Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, was laid to rest.
President Bola Tinubu GCFR, described her as a hardworking woman whose contributions at the 9th and 10th Assemblies were unquantifiable, expressing shock over her sudden death at 59.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abass GCON, eulogized her as a diligent woman who provided full representation to her people in the Green Chamber, demonstrating sterling leadership in handling issues at the committee level, especially as Chairperson of the House Committee on Women Affairs.
Ogun State Governor, His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun CON, remembered her as a dependable ally committed to humanity’s growth, executing people-oriented projects in her constituency and proving to be a reliable partner in state and national development.
Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Isola OFR, Baba Adinni of Ogun State and Yorubaland, Edo, and Delta States, also paid tribute, acknowledging the void left by Hon. Onanuga’s passing and praised her tireless efforts in championing justice, empowering women, and working toward societal development.
“As we bid our final farewell to this remarkable woman, we take comfort in the memories of her selfless service, her unwavering commitment to justice, and her unrelenting passion for the advancement of humanity”, Ambassador Isola stated.
The presence of big fish in political circle, underscored the significance of Rt. Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga’s life and legacy. It demonstrated the profound impact she had on her constituents, Ogun state, and the nation at large.
