Crème de la crème of Nigerians on Monday, November 4th 2024 trooped to the iconic YaÁdua Centre, Abuja to pay tribute to the pioneer civilian governor of Abia State and former minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu.
The event which attracted people from all works of life had in attendance, former President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, two former Secretaries to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen Anyim Pius Anyim and Mr. Boss Mustapha, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdulahi Ganduje, Minister of Works, Chief David, Umahi, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji among other dignitaries.
Paying tribute to Dr, Onu, the guests took turn to eulogise the former minister whom many described as a “Patriotic, selfless, and honest leader” whose integrity is outstanding among his peers.
In his remarks, President Goodluck Jonathan said that “Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu is worth celebrating” because all the encomiums poured on him were genuine and not “manufactured” to fulfil the culture of not speaking ill of the dead. Dr. Jonathan said that if Nigeria had more people like Dr. Onu the country would have made more progress.
Speaking about Dr. Onu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu who recounted the humbling support he got from Dr. Onu when he was contesting for his current position said that it was a “Night of questions.” According to Kalu, Dr. Onu’s life should elicit questions of how committed we are about development of our society and country. Kalu said that Dr. Onu was a trusted leader, not because of his riches, but because of his strong principles of “honesty, integrity, and unwavering patriotism.” The Deputy Speaker said that Dr. Onu in his life time was one politician that genuinely encouraged the younger generation to take over leadership positions.
Speaking on behalf of former governor-colleagues of Dr. Onu, former governor of Cross River State, Dr. Clement Ebri recalled that Dr. Onu was a “fine gentleman” who meant well for the society. Ebri said that Dr. Onu “was an organised man, his life was dedicated to service to God and humanity. He had capacity to conceptualise complex ideas.” Speaking further, Ebri noted that Dr. Onu was a man without bitterness in any form. Dr. Ebri eulogized the brilliance, clarity of mind and commitment of to the wellbeing of others.
In his own remarks, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim who also doubles as the Chairman of the burial committee stated that Dr. Onu was the pathfinder for leaders not just from Ebonyi State but the Southeast.
On his part, former governor of Ebonyi State and minister of Works, Chief David Umahi who described Dr, Onu as a “blood relative” said that the former minister was the “most loved man” in their hometown, Uburu.
Alhaji Mohammed Abdullahi, former Minister of State, Science and Technology who served alongside Dr. Onu spoke on behalf of former minsters, he described Dr. Onu as an “understanding, compassionate leader” who wrote his name in gold by ensuring that Executive Order 5 of President Muhammadu Buhari which established the policy of Local content- STEM in Nigeria came to being. He noted that Dr. Onu “sood and fought for Science and technology in Nigeria.”
Earlier, the first son Dr, Onu, Barr Chijioke Onu who read the biography of the late minister said that his late father’s philosophy as centred on “putting others ahead of self.” Chijioke who was visibly emotional said that he “hoped that his father inspired someone” to emulate the late minister’s fine ideals.
On her part, Barr Nwakaku Onu, the deceased last daughter, she described her late father as a man who “loved Nigeria more than his family.” Nwakaku acknowledged that her father left a lasting legacy for his family. She pledged to keep the good name saying, “He made a good name for us, we promise to keep the good name.” the highlight of the occasion was a standing ovation given to the widow of the deceased, Dr. Chinyere Onu, while clips of a sobering video documentary on the life and times of Dr. Onu sobered and drew resounding ovation from the audience.
Other dignitaries who graced the occasion include the Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi who represented Governor Francis Ogbonnaya Nwifuru, Senator Rochas Okorocha, Chief Okwesileze Nwodo, Sen. Adeleke Olorunnimbe Mamora, Pastor Usani Usani, Sen Osita Izunaso, Hon. Amaobi Ogah, Hon. Eze Nwachukwu Eze, Former Rivers State Governor, Hon Rotimi Amechi who gave vote of thanks. The even was anchored by ace comedian, Okey Bakkasi with solemn hymnal renditions directed by Dr. Jude Nnam and Friends.