The Oyo State House of Assembly held a solemn valedictory plenary in honour of the late Honourable Kehinde Hassan Subair, former Majority Leader and two-time legislator, who represented Ibadan South West Constituency I.
The session, marked by emotional tributes and deep reflections, painted a picture of a dedicated public servant whose life was cut short by the cold hands of death.
In his valedictory speech on March 20, Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Edward Adebo Ogundoyin, expressed profound grief over Subair’s passing, describing it as a tremendous loss to the Assembly, the state, and the people he diligently served.
“It is indeed a sad moment for us in the Oyo State House of Assembly. When the news of Hon. Kehinde Hassan Subair’s death filtered in, we thought it could be fake news that emanated from the pit of evil.
“But when the request for a special sitting in his honour came, we started asking ourselves so, this is how it would end for a staunch supporter of democracy, a great mind, a community leader, a grassroots politician, and a lover of the masses,” Ogundoyin said.
Reflecting on Subair’s time in the legislature, Ogundoyin highlighted his remarkable service during the 7th and 8th Assemblies, where he held key positions, including Deputy Majority Leader and later Majority Leader.
His leadership, according to Ogundoyin, was characterized by dexterity, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the people.
“Hon. Subair conducted the office he held with dexterity and leadership quality. Alongside the then Rt. Honourable Speaker Olagunju Ojo and other Principal Officers, he steered the ship of the 8th Assembly to greater heights, with the passage of laws that were of immense benefit in the service of the people,” Ogundoyin recounted.
Subair’s cordial relationships with his colleagues were also celebrated. His time in the 7th Assembly, particularly under Rt. Hon. Monsurat Sumonu, was described as exemplary, with no recorded crises and a shared focus on legislative progress.
“What a world we live in, “when it was time for our father and colleague to enjoy life, the cold hand of death snatched him away. When it was time to do more for his children and the constituency in higher political office, he was no more. What a world we live!”
“We honour you today and always, and we pray that your legacies live on. Adieu Hon. Kehinde Hassan Subair,” Ogundoyin concluded.
Several other past members of the state Assembly and family of the deceased also paid emotional tributes to the late lawmaker.
Former Speaker, and leader of the 7th Assembly, Senator Monsurat Sunmonu, said Hon. Subar’s journey, in politics was inspiring.
“Subar’s journey in politics was truly inspiring. He was more than just a lawmaker; he was a grassroots politician who understood the needs and aspirations of the people he represented.
“His political journey which began at ward level as a Supervisory Councillor in Ibadan Southwest Local Government (1996-1998) and later as a Councillor and Leader of the House (1999-2003), allowed him to not only demonstrate his commitment to grassroots development and community service, but shaped him into the dedicated and principled leader we came to know and admire,” She said.
Other lawmakers, in their separate submissions described Late Hon. Subar as a lover of democracy and a politician who championed the course of democracy by promoting spirit of sportsmanship in politics.
Daughter of the deceased who spoke on behalf of the family, Habitat Subir, in her emotional tribute, explained the pain her father’s passing has brought upon the family.
She described her father as a loving and caring family man who was passionate about family affairs and did not allow politics to meddle with domestic matters, stressing that he will be sorely missed.
The plenary which had other dignitaries in attendance including traditional rulers, former house of assembly members, and political associates, ended with prayers for Subair’s family and a resolve to ensure his legacy endures.