Otunba Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga: The Fearless Remo Daughter Carrying Pa Obafemi Awolowo’s Torch Of Excellence — Prince Lahbash

In the heart of Ogun State lies a region that has produced some of Nigeria’s most remarkable leaders. Chief Obafemi Jeremiah Awolowo, the revered son of Remo, was not only a champion of Nigerian independence but also the architect of visionary policies that continue to shape the socio-economic landscape of the country. Today, another Remo native, Rep. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga, fondly called “Ijaya,” emerges as a fearless leader, following in the great Pa Awolowo’s footsteps. While Awolowo was a man of many firsts, Onanuga is blazing her own trail as a modern-day political figure, crafting a legacy that mirrors Awolowo’s in ambition, resilience, and devotion to her people.

This article compiled by Comrade Bashiru Hammed Adewale popularly known as Honourable Prince Lahbash compares the achievements of Pa Obafemi Awolowo to the current strides of Rep. Oriyomi Onanuga, shedding light on how she complements the legacy of one of Africa’s greatest statesmen.

Awolowo’s Revolutionary Vision for Education: Laying the Foundation for a Future

Pa Awolowo’s introduction of free primary education in the Western Region in 1955 was a groundbreaking policy that positioned him as a true visionary leader. His belief in the transformative power of education reshaped the intellectual landscape of Nigeria, particularly among the Yoruba people. Thousands of children gained access to learning opportunities that were previously inaccessible. His educational policies remain one of the most enduring legacies of his leadership.

Onanuga’s Commitment to Youth Empowerment: The Modern-Day Parallel

In the same spirit, Rep. Oriyomi Onanuga has recognized the importance of education and empowerment as tools for social transformation. While she may not be in a position to create large-scale educational reforms, her focus on youth empowerment programs echoes Awolowo’s commitment to building a future through education. Onanuga has consistently championed skill acquisition programs, entrepreneurship workshops, and vocational training for young people in her constituency. Her efforts aim to provide Remo youth with the tools to thrive in an increasingly competitive economy.

Awolowo’s vision was to equip future generations with knowledge, while Onanuga’s mission is to ensure that those same generations have the economic independence and skills necessary for success. Both leaders understand that education, in its broadest sense, is the key to unlocking the potential of their people.

Economic Development and Financial Prudence: Awolowo’s Blueprint and Onanuga’s Continuation

Awolowo’s tenure as Premier of the Western Region is often celebrated for his economic foresight. He led a series of development projects, including the construction of the first stadium in Africa, Cocoa House, and the Western Nigeria Television, Africa’s first television station. His administration was known for its financial discipline, which allowed the region to remain economically stable and progressive. Awolowo’s ability to prudently manage resources set a benchmark for governance across Nigeria.

Rep. Onanuga, though not in an executive position, has nonetheless demonstrated a keen sense of fiscal responsibility and project management in her initiatives. She has been instrumental in attracting federal projects to her constituency, including infrastructural development in education and healthcare. Her attention to detail and insistence on accountability in project implementation resonate with Awolowo’s methodical approach to governance.

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While Awolowo operated on a regional and national scale, Onanuga’s contributions at the federal legislative level are helping to bring development to her constituency, reflecting a shared understanding of the importance of prudent management of resources for public good.

Social Welfare and Health: Caring for the People, Old and Young

Pa Awolowo was a pioneer in social welfare policies, particularly with his introduction of free healthcare for children in the Western Region. He believed that a healthy population was essential for economic development and national progress. This welfare-oriented approach won him the hearts of many, especially the underprivileged, and solidified his reputation as a leader who truly cared for his people.

Rep. Oriyomi Onanuga’s focus on healthcare initiatives for the elderly and the underprivileged is a direct continuation of this legacy. As a lawmaker, she has initiated healthcare outreach programs in her constituency, providing free medical care and medications to those in need. Her work echoes Awolowo’s commitment to ensuring that the government remains a provider of essential services to its people, particularly the vulnerable segments of the population.

Onanuga’s care for the elderly and advocacy for pensioners’ rights, much like Awolowo’s comprehensive social welfare policies, demonstrates her belief in a government that is responsible for the well-being of all its citizens, not just the privileged few.

Courage and Conviction: A Shared Political Ethos

One of the hallmarks of Pa Awolowo’s political career was his unyielding commitment to his beliefs, even in the face of great opposition. Awolowo was jailed for treason in the 1960s, yet his resolve to fight for a just and equitable Nigeria never wavered. He remained a powerful advocate for democracy, fairness, and the rule of law throughout his life.

Rep. Oriyomi Onanuga, who is popularly known as “Ijaya” for her fearless nature, mirrors this courage and conviction in her own political journey. As a woman in the male-dominated arena of Nigerian politics, Onanuga has had to overcome significant challenges. Yet, she has proven to be a formidable force, refusing to back down from advocating for her people, particularly women and marginalized groups. Her boldness in standing up to political opposition reflects Awolowo’s fearlessness and determination to serve the greater good, regardless of the personal cost.

Advancing Women’s Leadership: Ijaya’s Unique Legacy

While Awolowo’s achievements as a statesman are widely known, he did not have the opportunity to advance the cause of women in the political arena in the same way Rep. Onanuga is doing today. As one of the few female representatives from Remo, Onanuga is breaking barriers and setting a precedent for women’s leadership in the region. She is a vocal advocate for women’s rights, pushing for policies that address gender inequality and empower women economically and politically.

In this regard, Onanuga is building on Awolowo’s legacy by championing an inclusive vision for leadership that recognizes the importance of women in governance and development. Her work is paving the way for future generations of women to take on leadership roles in Remo and beyond.

A Legacy Continued, A New Trail Blazed

While Pa Obafemi Awolowo laid the foundation for Remo’s political and social development, Rep. Oriyomi Onanuga is complementing that legacy with her own achievements as a modern-day leader. From youth empowerment to healthcare and social advocacy, Onanuga’s work mirrors many of the principles that defined Awolowo’s career. At the same time, she is breaking new ground as a fearless female leader, ensuring that the Remo legacy of excellence in public service continues.

In Oriyomi Onanuga, Remo has found a new champion—one whose courage, conviction, and compassion reflect the best of what Pa Awolowo stood for. She is indeed the “Ijaya” of her generation, carrying Pa Awolowo’s torch forward while carving out her own unique place in history.