In the first quarter of 2025, the deaths of five influential political leaders in Nigeria marked the end of eras, their legacies still reverberating through the country’s political sphere.

These individuals, whose careers spanned decades, played pivotal roles in driving national change, advocating for social justice, and navigating the complex political terrain of Nigeria.

Their deaths have not only left emotional voids but have also sparked reflections on their vital roles in shaping the country’s trajectory.

From lawmakers to advocates for democracy, each of these figures carved a unique path in Nigerian politics, making significant contributions at the highest levels of government and in the grassroots.

Here is a look back at five political figures who left an indelible mark before their passing in early 2025:

1. Rt. Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga (1965–2025):

A dedicated public servant and Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga represented the Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency. She passed away on January 15, 2025, at the age of 59, after a brief illness.

Onanuga’s death marks the end of a distinguished career in Nigerian politics, and her contributions to legislative duties have left a lasting legacy.

2. Justice Azuka (1985 – 2025):

Representing Onitsha North 1 Constituency in the Anambra Assembly, Justice Azuka’s tragic death was a reminder of the ongoing security threats faced by Nigerian public figures.

Abducted on December 24, 2024, his body was discovered on February 6, 2025. Azuka’s passing highlights the dire need for enhanced security measures to protect lawmakers and public officials in Nigeria.

3. Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark (1927–2025):

A towering figure in Nigerian politics and an iconic Ijaw leader, Chief Edwin Clark served as the Federal Commissioner for Information during the military regime of General Murtala Mohammed.

His advocacy for the Niger Delta people’s rights and his long-standing involvement in Nigeria’s political evolution earned him immense respect across the nation. Chief Clark passed away on February 17, 2025, at the age of 97, leaving behind a rich legacy of political activism.

4. Pa Ayo Adebanjo (1928–2025):

A respected leader of the Afenifere socio-political group, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, dedicated his life to the promotion of democracy and national unity. His tireless advocacy for the Yoruba people and his steadfast commitment to Nigeria’s democratic principles made him a beloved figure in the political sphere.

Pa Adebanjo passed away peacefully at his home in Lekki, Lagos, on February 14, 2025, at the age of 96.

5. Dr. Doyin Okupe (1952–2025):

A seasoned physician and a prominent political figure, Doyin Okupe, held key positions, including Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Olusegun Obasanjo and Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Goodluck Jonathan.

His passing on March 7, 2025, at the age of 72, after a battle with cancer, marked the end of a distinguished career in public service. Dr. Okupe’s ability to communicate political messages with clarity and his role in shaping public policy left a significant imprint on Nigerian politics.

The post Five Key Political Figures Who Died In 2025’s First Quarter appeared first on Naija News.

The Labour Party (LP) 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, visited the family of former presidential aide, Doyin Okupe, following his demise.

Naija News reported that Okupe passed away on Friday morning at the age of 72 after a prolonged battle with prostate cancer.

In a post via his 𝕏 handle on Friday night, Peter Obi said he visited the deceased’s family to offer his condolences.

Obi, the former Governor of Anambra State, assured he will stand by the Okupe’s family during this difficult times.

He wrote, “Following the sad news of the death of my dear elder brother, late Dr Doyin Okupe and my earlier tweet today, I visited his family this evening to offer my heartfelt condolences.

“I assured them that we will stand by them during this difficult time. While no one can question God’s will, we must continue to support and stand by one another, especially in time of grief.

“Once again, may Almighty God grant the family the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss, and may the soul of Dr. Doyin Okupe rest in perfect peace.”

Meanwhile, Doyin Okupe reportedly missed the opportunity to become the monarch of his hometown, Alaperu of Iperu Remo, in Ogun State, due to ill health.

The Alaperu of Iperu Remo, Oba Adeleke Idowu-Basibo, passed away on February 6, 2025, at Babcock University Teaching Hospital, causing a profound loss to the town.

A family source who spoke to SaharaReporters disclosed that after the demise of Oba Idowu-Basibo, some kingmakers, including prominent sons and daughters of the town, approached Doyin to succeed the late monarch.

The source said the consideration was notable given that the deceased’s cousin cum Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, is a prominent son of the town.

However, Okupe declined the request because of his ill health and missed the opportunity to become the king

The post Photos: Peter Obi Visits Doyin Okupe’s Home, Makes Promise To Family appeared first on Naija News.

The body of Nigerian physician, politician, and former presidential aide, Doyin Okupe, who recently passed away, is currently being transported to a mortuary.

Naija News reported earlier that Okupe died at the age of 72 while undergoing surgery in a hospital in Lagos.

As of Friday morning, family sources indicated that preparations were underway for the transfer of his remains to the mortuary.

“He has seven children, and four or five of them are currently out of the country. He is being taken to the mortuary now,” a source disclosed to SaharaReporters.

The source further noted that Okupe’s burial may not take place immediately, possibly being postponed until after Lent and Ramadan or around Easter, on April 20.

The deceased’s family told journalists that Okupe, who had been in Abuja, returned to Lagos less than a week ago for a surgical procedure at a hospital on Lagos Island. Tragically, he did not survive the operation.

More details shortly…

The post BREAKING: Fresh Update Emerges On Doyin Okupe’s Death appeared first on Naija News.