By Uche Amunike
It was a season of tears for the APC in Oyo State when the news of Akinremi Jagaban’s death on Wednesday at Abuja, at the age of 51, made the rounds.
The lawmaker who was a two-term member of the House of Representatives, representing Ibadan North Federal Constituency, served as Chairman of the House Committee on Science Research Institutions.
Speaking, through a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media, Suleiman Olanrewaju, the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde described the death of the lawmaker as a huge shock, while stating that he could vouch for him as someone who had visible interest in the development of Oyo State and Nigeria. He further stated that even though they belonged to different political parties, they constantly communicated on common grounds.
The Oyo State chapter of the APC, on their part, decried the fact that the late lawmaker died at a time when his constituents and the National Assembly needed him most.
A statement released by the PRO of the state APC partly read : ‘Prince Akinremi’s demise is a death too many as he means so much to our great party even in death. It was he who redefined representation at the National Assembly to give relief and hope to the people of Ibadan North Federal Constituency. He was the face of responsible and responsive leadership with many achievements on his record.’
‘The Isaac Omodewu-led State Executive Committee as well as the entire members and supporters of the APC have lost a wonderful party man and a colourful politician who left an indelible footprint on the sands of time.’
Speaking, through a post on his X page, the spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Akin Rotimi, expressed his pain at Akinremi Jagaban’s death, describing him as a politician that made great impacts in his constituency.
According to him, the late lawmaker, whose real name is Musiliudeen Akinremi, showed great commitment and dedication to his job as lawmaker and particularly built strong friendships among people of his constituency.
His words: ‘Until his demise, the Oyo legislator was a dedicated public servant known for his unwavering commitment to the development of his constituency and the country at large. His passion for service, coupled with his deep understanding of the needs and aspirations of his people, earned him the endearing title of ‘Jagaban.’
‘Throughout his tenure, he was a staunch advocate for policies and initiatives that promoted social welfare, economic growth, and scientific research. His contributions to legislative debates and his active participation in committee activities were a testament to his dedication and hard work.’
‘Akinremi was as much a grassroots politician as he was an astute statesman who leveraged his goodwill and network of relationships to attract a positive impact to the people of his constituency. He built friendships by being intentional about reaching out and sending goodwill messages to all colleagues on special occasions, fostering camaraderie and unity within the House.’
He continued: ‘As a ranking member, Rep. Akinremi had keen institutional memory and was a mentor to many first-time parliamentarians, guiding them with wisdom gained from his extensive experience in legislative affairs.’
‘Rep. Akinremi Olaide Adewale was a beacon of dedication and service. His contributions to our legislative work, especially in the area of science and research, were invaluable.’
‘His passing is a great loss to the House, his constituency, and the nation. We will miss his leadership, wisdom, and the unique passion he brought to his work.’
