Oyo Speaker Ogundoyin Mourns Passing of Former Lawmaker Abdul-Rasak Abdullahi

The political community in Oyo State has been plunged into mourning following the announcement of the death of Honourable Abdul-Rasak Ademola Abdullahi, a former member of the Oyo State House of Assembly. The deceased, widely known by his political moniker "Omo Sheu," served as the representative for Ibadan South East Constituency 1 during the 9th Assembly. His passing has elicited a wave of tributes from top government officials, led by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, who described the loss as a significant blow to the legislative family and the state’s political landscape.

In a formal statement issued on Monday, Speaker Ogundoyin expressed his profound shock and sadness at the news of his former colleague's demise. He characterized the late lawmaker as a compassionate leader and a loyal party man who dedicated his tenure to the service of his constituents. The Speaker noted that Hon. Abdullahi was not merely a politician but a vibrant contributor to the legislative process during the 9th Assembly, whose insights and dedication left a mark on the house's proceedings.

The Speaker’s tribute highlighted the deceased's reputation as a "true grassroots politician." According to Ogundoyin, Omo Sheu remained deeply connected to the people he represented, constantly advocating for their needs and well-being. This proximity to the electorate was a defining feature of his political career, earning him respect across party lines. The Speaker lamented that the late lawmaker’s humility, dedication to public service, and the warmth he brought to their legislative interactions would be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of working with him.

Governor Seyi Makinde also joined the state in mourning, describing the death of the former lawmaker as "shocking and disheartening." Through a statement released by his media team, the Governor extended his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and political associates of the deceased. He acknowledged the service rendered by Hon. Abdullahi to the state, particularly his efforts in representing the interests of Ibadan South East Constituency 1. The Governor prayed for the repose of his soul and asked for the fortitude for the family to bear the irreparable loss.

Hon. Abdul-Rasak Ademola Abdullahi reportedly passed away on Sunday night, December 28, 2025, after a battle with a kidney-related ailment. His death comes just two years after the conclusion of his tenure in the 9th Assembly, which ran from 2019 to 2023. During his time in office, he was credited with championing community development initiatives and advocating for improved social services, focusing heavily on alleviating the challenges faced by the most vulnerable members of his constituency.

Beyond the executive and legislative leadership, the Forum of Oyo State Council Chairmen has also registered its condolences. In a communique signed by the forum’s publicity secretary, the council chairmen described the death as a painful loss to the entire Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) family in the state. They praised the late lawmaker’s unwavering commitment to democratic ideals and his cooperative spirit, which facilitated a harmonious relationship between the legislative and executive arms of government at the local level.

Colleagues from the 9th Assembly have also been vocal in their grief. Hon. Saminu Riliwan Gbadamosi, who represented Atisbo/Saki-East State Constituency, penned a touching tribute describing Abdullahi as a "colleague of principle." He emphasized that the late lawmaker distinguished himself through sincerity and passion, traits that made him a beloved figure among his peers. The collective sentiment from his former colleagues paints a picture of a legislator who was deeply committed to the development of Oyo State.

As the state prepares to bid farewell to the late politician, the outpouring of grief serves as a testament to the impact he made during his years of public service. Speaker Ogundoyin concluded his message by extending condolences to the people of Ibadan South East Local Government and the entire PDP structure in the state. He prayed that Almighty Allah would grant the deceased Al-Jannah Firdaus and provide strength to the grieving family during this difficult period.