RismadarVoice Reporters, August 22, 2026
Former Senator Smart Adeyemi has called for basic medical screening at major political gatherings following the sudden death of the APC Chairman in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, Oyewole Mayowa Solomon.
Solomon reportedly slumped and died during a reconciliation meeting in Iyara, leaving party members and political associates shocked.
In a statement, Adeyemi described the deceased as a young, energetic and committed party leader whose contribution to the APC in Ijumu would be difficult to replace.
He said Solomon’s death was particularly painful because it occurred during a meeting intended to promote peace, reconciliation and unity within the party.
Adeyemi said the incident should prompt political parties to take the health and wellbeing of their members more seriously, particularly during lengthy and emotionally demanding meetings.
He urged the APC national leadership and other political parties to consider introducing compulsory basic medical checks before major meetings, especially blood-pressure screening.
According to him, anyone found to be medically unfit should be allowed to leave the meeting and seek immediate medical attention rather than remain under physical or emotional strain.
“This is not about politics. It is about preserving lives. No political meeting, no matter how important, is more important than the life of a party member.”
Adeyemi also expressed concern that Solomon’s death followed another similar incident in Ijumu, recalling the death of former Commissioner for Special Duties, Yahaya Adesayo Ismail, who reportedly slumped and died in January 2024.
He argued that the latest tragedy should not simply be followed by mourning, but should lead to practical measures aimed at preventing similar incidents.
Adeyemi commiserated with Solomon’s wife, children, relatives, friends and political associates, as well as the wider APC family in Ijumu, and prayed for strength for the family to cope with the loss.
The senator’s proposal effectively shifts the focus from mourning alone to preventive measures, advocating basic health checks as part of safety protocols for major political meetings.
