By John Umeh
The All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Nigerian political landscape have been thrown into mourning following the death of Jesutega Onokpasa, a vocal party chieftain, legal practitioner, and respected commentator on national issues. Onokpasa, known for his unwavering loyalty to the APC and his forthright political analyses, passed away in the early hours of Monday. His death has triggered an outpouring of grief and tributes from political leaders, party faithful, and citizens alike.
A Fearless Political Voice Falls Silent
Jesutega Onokpasa was not just a lawyer and APC stalwart—he was an unflinching voice in Nigeria’s often contentious political discourse. Whether on national television or in op-ed pieces, Onokpasa was known for his articulate defense of APC policies, his loyalty to party leadership, and his sharp critiques of opposition politics. He became a familiar face during Nigeria’s election cycles, offering unapologetic insights that often resonated with the party’s base and rankled critics.
His passing leaves a void, especially among the younger crop of politicians and thinkers who looked up to him as a figure of bold political engagement and fearless rhetoric. Though sometimes controversial, Onokpasa’s commentaries were rooted in a deep belief in democratic governance, constitutional law, and what he described as the “progressive mission” of the APC.
Legal Luminary and Party Strategist
A trained lawyer, Onokpasa brought intellectual rigor and legal depth to his political interventions. He held degrees in law and was a member of the Nigerian Bar Association, where he also contributed to legal scholarship and debates on constitutional matters. His background in law often informed his unique angle on national policy discussions, making him a sought-after analyst in media and party strategy meetings.
Within the APC, Onokpasa held several advisory roles and was often consulted on matters of party unity and electoral tactics. Though he never held elected office, his behind-the-scenes influence was widely acknowledged, particularly in shaping youth-oriented political messaging and in countering opposition narratives in the media.
Party insiders describe him as a “relentless patriot” whose commitment to the APC’s ideals was not motivated by position or power, but by conviction. “He gave his all to the party,” said an APC National Working Committee member. “Jesutega never shied away from defending the party, even when it wasn’t politically convenient to do so.”
Tributes Pour In
Since news of his passing broke, tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed deep sorrow, calling Onokpasa “a fierce defender of our democracy and a shining example of commitment to party ideals.” Senate President Godswill Akpabio also described him as “a man of bold convictions who believed in the transformative power of good governance.”
Opposition figures, too, acknowledged his contributions to national debate, with a spokesperson for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) noting that “though we often disagreed with his politics, we respected his consistency and fearlessness.”
Friends and colleagues have remembered Onokpasa not just for his political fire, but also for his personal warmth and sharp wit. “Jesutega was never one to back down from a debate, but he always left room for friendship,” said a fellow lawyer. “He knew how to separate political rivalry from personal respect.”
Legacy and Final Words
Jesutega Onokpasa’s sudden departure is a significant loss to Nigeria’s political class and to the legal profession. He exemplified the role of the public intellectual in a democracy—one who is not afraid to speak his truth, even when unpopular. As Nigeria continues to navigate its complex democratic journey, voices like his—blunt, informed, and principled—will be sorely missed.
Details of his burial arrangements are yet to be announced by the family.
He is survived by his wife, children, and a legacy of bold political thought that will continue to inspire long after his voice has gone silent.
