Kehinde Hassan Subair, a former Majority Leader of the Oyo State House of Assembly and a notable figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC), has died at the age of 59. He passed away in the United Kingdom on March 14, 2025, just seven days shy of his 60th birthday.
Early Life and Education
Born on March 21, 1965, in Ibadan Southwest Local Government Area, Oyo State, Subair began his educational journey at Ibadan City Council, Oke Oluokun Primary School, obtaining his Primary School Leaving Certificate in 1976. He proceeded to Ibadan City Academy Eleta, Ibadan, where he earned his West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) certificate in 1983. In 1985, he completed the Royal Society of Arts (R.S.A) Examination in typewriting and the PITMAN Examination, both at 35 words per minute. Subair later achieved his General Certificate of Education (G.C.E) in 2003 and graduated from the University of Ado-Ekiti with a degree in Public Administration in 2006.
Political Career
Subair’s political journey commenced in the early 1990s. In 1999, he was elected as a councillor representing Ward 3, Constituency 1, Ibadan South West, under the Alliance for Democracy (AD). His leadership qualities led to his appointment as the Speaker of the Ibadan South West Local Government Legislative Council. After the AD’s electoral defeat in 2003, Subair returned to his cement merchandising business while remaining active in grassroots politics. He was a steadfast follower of the late Alhaji Lam Adesina and remained loyal to the progressive political ideology throughout his career.
In 2011, Subair was elected to the Oyo State House of Assembly under the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), representing Constituency 1, Ibadan South West. He secured re-election in 2015 under the All Progressives Congress (APC) and served as the Majority Leader of the House during his second term. His tenure in the Assembly was marked by his commitment to his constituents and his dedication to legislative duties.
Business Ventures
Beyond politics, Subair was a successful businessman with interests in cement merchandising, real estate, and oil and gas. His entrepreneurial spirit complemented his political career, allowing him to support his community and maintain financial independence.
Circumstances of Death
Reports indicate that Subair died shortly after breaking his Ramadan fast in the United Kingdom. The exact cause of his death remains undisclosed. His passing has elicited expressions of grief and condolences from political associates and community members.
Tributes and Reactions
A chieftain of the APC in Oyo State, speaking anonymously, remarked, “Subair died in the UK, seven days to his 60th birthday. He will surely be missed by the party.” The Publicity Secretary of the APC in Oyo State, Wale Sadare, confirmed Subair’s death, stating, “Yes, he is dead, confirmed. But I cannot talk too much now because I am currently in a studio.”
Conclusion
Kehinde Subair’s death marks the loss of a dedicated public servant, a committed politician, and a successful entrepreneur. His contributions to the political landscape of Oyo State and his unwavering commitment to his constituents have left an indelible mark. As the community mourns his passing, his legacy of service and dedication to progressive ideals will be remembered.
