Ijaya’s Legacy Lives On: Who Takes The Baton For Remo Constituency – Comrade Femi Osinubi Writes Remo People
The Women Continuity Advocacy Spectrum
The news of the passing of Rt. Hon. Dr. Otunba Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga Ijaya, Chief Deputy Whip of the House of Representatives, sent shockwaves across Ogun State. At first, many dismissed it as a rumor, clinging to hope that it wasn’t true. Sadly, reality soon set in, leaving Remo land in mourning. Her absence is deeply felt, a painful reminder that even the most unimaginable tragedies can become our harsh reality.
As we navigate this difficult time, we are faced with the crucial task of finding a worthy successor for the Remo Federal Constituency seat, covering Ikenne LGA, Remo North, and Sagamu LGA. In line with electoral law, a bye-election will be conducted within 90 days to fill the vacant seat. The question now is: who can continue Ijaya’s remarkable legacy?Her death has further reduced the already low number of female representatives in the Southwest, dropping from three to two (Lagos and Oyo) and nationwide from 16 to 15, reducing female representation in the National Assembly from 4.4% to 4.2%—far below the 35% inclusion target for women in governance.
This also disrupts the political balance within the House of Representatives. The Deputy Chief Whip position she held may now shift to the Southeast or North, where there are more returnee female legislators, unless the House leadership decides to retain it in the Southwest. If not retained, it will likely go to a male lawmaker.
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The Case For A Female Successor
In Ogun State, eight out of nine House of Representatives members are men. To promote women’s inclusion, we must support a female candidate in the upcoming bye-election. This is not just about gender representation but about sustaining the programs and initiatives that Ijaya championed—especially in women and youth empowerment.
As Chairperson of the House Committee on Women Affairs, Ijaya facilitated numerous empowerment programs and grants for women and youths. If a female representative is not elected, these opportunities could be lost. Ensuring a female successor would not only be a tribute to her legacy but also a step towards a more inclusive political landscape.
Political Parties Must Prioritize Women Representation
To honor Ijaya’s legacy and uphold women’s relevance in Ogun politics, all political parties should consider fielding female candidates in the bye-election. This will:
– Strengthen female representation in governance.
– Ensure continuity in the developmental projects she started.
– Give Ogun women a voice in national politics.
While experience, competence, and passion for Remo land should be the primary considerations, we must also ask: Who among the female political leaders has the pedigree to step into Ijaya’s shoes?
This is a crucial assignment for party leadership. The party that boldly projects this agenda stands a strong chance of winning, as this election will largely be a sympathy vote in honor of our late representative.
As we explore potential candidates, let us consider the bigger picture—the advancement of Remo land. Regardless of party affiliations, we must unite to ensure the best possible representation for our people.
Comrade Oluwafemi Osinubi KlickRound
osinubioluwafemi1@gmail.com
📞 07053349691
