Barrister Jesutega Onokpasa, a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), respected lawyer, and well-known political commentator, has reportedly passed away. Mr. Onokpasa, who once served as the chairman of the Tinubu Media Support Group, died on Monday, June 9. The news of his demise was confirmed on Tuesday, June 10.

The confirmation of Mr. Onokpasa's passing was shared by pro-APC crusader Okezie Atani via his X account. In his announcement, Atani stated, “We lost Barr. Jesutega Onokpasa, may his soul rest in perfect peace.” The political commentator is survived by his wife and children. The circumstances surrounding his death have not yet been disclosed.

Tributes have begun to emerge, including one from a Facebook page named "Renewed Hope United Kingdom," which posted a message titled “A Farewell to a Passionate Advocate: Honouring Jesutega Onokpasa’s Legacy.” The tribute acknowledged his passing as a “profound loss to the Nigerian political and legal landscape,” highlighting his engagement in shaping discourse and advocating for his beliefs. It further mentioned his contributions as a member of the APC Publicity Committee and the APC Presidential Campaign Council in 2023, reflecting his commitment.

Jesutega Onokpasa gained national attention for his articulate political commentary and was known for his staunch support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He frequently appeared on television to defend the current administration and its policies. His service on the APC’s publicity committee and as a member of the party's presidential campaign council in 2023 underscored his active role within the party.

Despite his long-standing support, Mr. Onokpasa had recently become a vocal critic of President Tinubu's administration. Weeks before his demise, he expressed strong disapproval of some of the president's appointments, particularly those involving individuals who had allegedly insulted Tinubu and the APC. He warned that such decisions could alienate the party's core supporters.

Onokpasa had also voiced concerns over what he termed failed campaign promises and criticized the high rate of hunger and economic hardship under the APC-led government. He explicitly threatened to withdraw his support for President Tinubu in the 2027 elections if the president did not "retrace his steps" and show more respect to party members who had defended him during his campaign. He stated, "I will not support President Tinubu in 2027 if he doesn’t retrace his steps. He must respect our party members and stop giving appointments to people who have disregarded us."

In the period leading up to his death, there were public concerns regarding Mr. Onokpasa's wellbeing. Legit.ng reported that Nigerians had raised concerns over his health following an appearance on Arise TV, where he seemed visibly unwell.

The passing of Barrister Jesutega Onokpasa marks the loss of a significant voice in Nigeria’s democratic conversation. His contributions, whether in support or critique, were considered vital, and his absence is expected to be deeply felt within the political and legal spheres.