The year 2025 opened with optimism across Nigeria’s political landscape. New strategies were unfolding, alliances were forming, and veteran leaders were still offering counsel from the sidelines.
But as the months rolled on, that hope was repeatedly interrupted by the toll of mortality. One after another, some of the nation’s most influential political voices were silenced—some unexpectedly, others after long battles with illness.
From the chambers of the National Assembly to historic homes of elder statesmen, death cut across party lines, regions, and generations.
These losses did more than dim political offices; they triggered moments of national pause, reflection, and remembrance.
Below is a recap of seven prominent Nigerian politicians whose deaths in 2025 sent shockwaves across the country, reshaping conversations about leadership, legacy, and the fleeting nature of power.
Hon. Adewunmi Onanuga – A Sudden Loss in the Green Chamber
The first major political tragedy of 2025 struck early. On January 15, Hon. Adewunmi Onanuga, Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, passed away after a brief illness.
Representing Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency of Ogun State, Onanuga had only recently secured her re-election in 2023 and risen to the leadership cadre of the 10th Assembly.
Her death at 60 years old stunned colleagues and constituents alike, cutting short a career many believed was entering its most impactful phase.
Pa Ayo Adebanjo
By mid-February, Nigeria mourned one of its most outspoken elder statesmen. Pa Ayo Adebanjo, revered leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organization Afenifere, died peacefully on February 14, 2025, at his Lekki residence in Lagos.
At 96,Adebanjo remained a relentless advocate for restructuring, justice, and true federalism until the very end.
His burial on May 3 in Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu-Ode in Ogun State, marked the farewell of a man whose voice shaped decades of political discourse.
Chief Edwin Clark
Just days later, the nation lost another towering figure. Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, former Federal Commissioner for Information and respected Ijaw leader, died on February 17, 2025, aged 98.
Clark passed away in Abuja following a brief illness marked by breathing complications.
Known for his fearless advocacy for the Niger Delta and minority rights, he was laid to rest on May 13 in Kiagbodo, Delta State—closing the chapter on a life steeped in activism and national service.
Doyin Okupe – A Strategist’s Final Bow
On March 7, 2025, politics and media lost a seasoned tactician with the death of Doyin Okupe.
The former presidential spokesperson to Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan died in Lagos after a prolonged illness.
At 72, Okupe left behind decades of experience navigating Nigeria’s political communication space.
He was buried on March 28 in Iperu-Remo, Ogun State, amid tributes that acknowledged his sharp intellect and controversial but impactful career.
Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo
The passing of Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo on June 25, 2025, marked the loss of a political bridge between Nigeria’s past and present.
The former Kwara State governor and ex-senator died at 84.
Adebayo also served as Minister of Communications and Transportation between 2003 and 2006, contributing to policy at both state and federal levels. He was buried in his hometown in Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State.
Muhammadu Buhari – Farewell to a Former President
One of the most consequential deaths of the year occurred in July. Nigeria’s immediate past president, Muhammadu Buhari, died in London on July 13, 2025, at the age of 82, following a brief illness.
A former military head of state turned two-term civilian president, Buhari’s death drew global attention. He was buried on July 15 in Daura, Katsina State, as dignitaries from within and outside Nigeria gathered to honor a leader whose legacy continues to provoke debate and reflection.
Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo
As the year neared its end, tragedy struck Bayelsa State. Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo died on December 11, 2025, after reportedly slumping in his office.
Governor Douye Diri ordered an autopsy to determine the cause of death and declared three days of mourning, directing that flags fly at half-mast across the state.
His sudden passing cast a somber shadow over the state’s political leadership just weeks before year’s end.
A Year Remembered For Its Silence
2025 will be remembered not only for political developments but also for the voices it took away. These leaders—young and old, reformists and traditionalists—each left indelible marks on Nigeria’s evolving story.
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Their deaths served as a stark reminder that beyond power and position, legacy is what endures.
