Oyo Rep. Olaide Akinremi dies at 51, Gov. Makinde grieves

Rep. Akinremi Olaide, also known as “Jagaban,” a member representing the Ibadan North Federal Constituency, passed away on Wednesday, plunging the House of Representatives into mourning.

Akinremi passed away on Wednesday at the age of 51 after reportedly experiencing a minor health issue.

Meanwhile, Oyo State Gov. Seyi Makinde has expressed deep condolences over the death of the lawmaker.

In honor of the deceased lawmaker, the governor has ordered flags to fly at half-mast throughout Oyo State.

He described the Green Chamber member’s sudden death as shocking and a great loss to the state.

Makinde prayed for the repose of the soul of the departed and courage for the family to bear the unfortunate loss.

His untimely death represents the third House member loss since the 9th National Assembly’s inception on June 13, 2024, according to Persecondnews.

The spokesman for the House, Rep. Akintunde Rotimi, confirmed the death of Olaide in a statement released in Abuja.

Rotimi announced that the APC lawmaker, who served as Chairman of the House Committee on Science Research Institutions, succumbed to a brief illness and passed away on Wednesday morning.

“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.

“He was as much a grassroots politician as he was an astute statesman who leveraged his goodwill and network of relationships to attract 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.

“As a ranking member, he 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.”

Speaker Abbas Tajudeen conveyed his deepest condolences and expressed his profound sorrow and sadness upon learning of the tragic loss, according to Rotimi.

He quoted the Speaker as saying that “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.”