Well, my people, it seems the political arena has lost one of its ‘lesser’ Jagabans. For those keeping score, yes, there’s a bigger Jagaban, but let’s stick to the news at hand.
The House of Representatives has confirmed the death of Honourable Prince Olaide Akinremi, affectionately dubbed ‘Jagaban’ by his supporters. House Spokesman and Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr., delivered the somber news on Wednesday. Akinremi, who served Ibadan North Federal Constituency under the All Progressives Congress (APC) banner, passed away following a brief illness. He was just 51 years old.
In an official statement, Rotimi praised the late Akinremi’s dedication to public service and his unyielding commitment to the betterment of his constituency and Nigeria as a whole. Akinremi’s nickname, ‘Jagaban,’ was a testament to his grassroots appeal and his knack for connecting with the electorate. His tenure was marked by vigorous advocacy for social welfare, economic progress, and scientific research.
But let’s not sugarcoat it. While some hailed him as a dedicated public servant, others saw his political maneuvers as mere posturing. He was a figure who could navigate the dirty waters of politics, maintaining friendships and alliances through a mix of goodwill messages and strategic outreach. His colleagues in the House saw him as a mentor, thanks to his wealth of legislative experience and institutional memory.
The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, expressed profound sorrow at Akinremi’s passing. According to Tajudeen, Akinremi was a “beacon of dedication and service,” particularly in the realm of science and research. His absence leaves a void not only in the House but also in his constituency and across the nation.
He said, “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.
“The entire House of Representatives mourns this significant loss and extends its heartfelt condolences to the Akinremi family, the Ibadan North Federal Constituency, the Government and People of Oyo State, and the entire APC family. Rep. Akinremi’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire those who had the privilege of working with him and benefiting from his leadership.
“We pray that the Almighty grants his family and loved ones the strength to bear this irreparable loss. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
As the House of Representatives mourns, they extend heartfelt condolences to the Akinremi family, the people of Ibadan North, and the entire APC community. The late ‘Jagaban’s’ legacy, they assure us, will continue to inspire all who knew him.
We can only hope that his departure will indeed inspire a genuine commitment to service among his successors, rather than just more political theater. May his soul rest in perfect peace.
