The remains of late Governor of old Abia State and former Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu has been laid to rest in his country home, Uburu Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
President Bola Tinubu, Senator Anyim Pius, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Abdullahi Ganduje, Governors Alex Otti, Francis Nwifuru and Peter Mbah, were among prominent Nigerians that attended the burial.
Other personalities who attended the burial, include Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State who was represented by his deputy, and his Imo State counterpart, Hope Uzodimma, represented by his deputy, and former Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi.
Onu who died at 72, was buried on Friday.
In his tribune, President Tinubu, who was represented by Minister of Works, Sen. David Umahi, described Onu as a perfect gentleman who lived a selfless life and contributed immensely to the development of the country.
Tinubu noted that the late former national chairman of the defunct All Nigeria People’s Party(ANPP) would be remembered for the great sacrifice he made for the unity and progress of the nation.
He recalled that Onu played a significant role in the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and prayed God to grant his soul internal rest in his paradise.
Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State in his remarks, said the late Dr. Onu played a vital role to the development and unity of the country.
“Through every role he held, he demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the ideals of justice, development, and unity. He pursued equity and social justice till his last breath on earth.
“His Excellency, Dr Onu dedicated himself wholly, not just to building infrastructure while serving as governor of Abia State from where some part of Ebonyi politically and sociologically grew, but to building people, uniting communities, and elevating the voices of those who often were unheard.
“In his time as governor of old Abia State, his Excellency, Dr. Ogbonnaya Christopher Onu led with vision and a tireless energy. Under his guidance, our roads were modernized, schools were built, and our healthcare system saw advancements that impacted thousands of lives.
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”I am pretty sure years after leaving office, successive administrations consolidated his legacies because the policies and programs of his government were all people centric —making it impossible for other administration to abandon. His vision wasn’t limited to his tenure; he dreamed of a future where this state would be a beacon of excellence and prosperity.
”Today, as we reflect on his achievements, we see that his dream is still alive and growing. As a Minister of Science and Technology— Dr Onu took that same spirit to the national level, advocating for our region and pushing forward policies that uplifted communities across the country.
“He was instrumental in fostering relationships that brought development and innovation to our people. He wore the mantle of leadership with dignity, advocating tirelessly for our rights, and standing as a pillar of support for those in need.
“Within our party, the All Progressives Congress, he was a chieftain who guided us with wisdom and grace. His values, his words, and his humility reminded us all of the principles that unite us.. Even in challenging times, his loyalty never wavered nor faltered—his dedication to the people was steadfast.
“He built bridges, inspired generations, and left an enduring example of what true leadership should be. It is sad that to say His Excellency, Dr. Ogbonnaya Christopher Onu did not live to see and enjoy his desire and quest for equity and social justice in the context of the Igbo presidency. Only God knows why.
“Today, we bid farewell not just to a former governor, a former minister, and a party chieftain, but to a hero of our state, a friend, a mentor, and an irreplaceable part of our community in particular and our state in general.
“May his soul rest in peace, and may we continue to honor him in all that we do. Thank you, and may God bless us all as we keep his memory alive in our hearts, ” Gov. Nwifuru said.
