Prominent figures such as President Bola Tinubu, former President Muhammadu Buhari, and other notable Nigerians have expressed sorrow over the passing of Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, the former Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation and the first civilian governor of Abia State. Dr. Onu, who served in President Buhari’s administration before vying for the APC presidential primary, passed away in an Abuja hospital after a brief illness, as confirmed by his family. The 73-year-old politician, author, and engineer hailed from Uburu in Ebonyi State.
A graduate of the University of Lagos, Dr. Onu began his career as a teacher at St. Augustine’s Seminary in Ebonyi State. Following his doctoral studies at the University of California, he became a lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt, eventually becoming the pioneer Head of the Department of Chemical Engineering. His political journey commenced as a senatorial aspirant in old Imo State under the National Party of Nigeria.
In 1991, Dr. Onu successfully contested for the Governorship of Abia State under the National Republican Convention, becoming its first civilian governor in January 1992. He governed Abia State before the creation of Ebonyi State. His family announced his passing, expressing their submission to the will of God.
President Tinubu, in a statement by his Special Adviser, praised Dr. Onu as a shining figure in Nigeria’s political landscape. He extended condolences to the family and highlighted Dr. Onu’s role in the founding of the APC and its victory in the 2015 elections. Former President Buhari also paid tribute to Dr. Onu, referring to him as an “intellectual giant” and one of Nigeria’s foremost scientific minds.
The APC mourned Dr. Onu’s demise as a significant loss, describing him as a gentleman and a pivotal figure in the party’s history. Dr. Ijeoma Arodiogbu, the APC National Vice Chairman (South-East), remembered Dr. Onu as a key player in the party’s formation and a stalwart in the South-East, emphasizing his contributions and leadership.
Kalu, in a statement, mourned Onu’s death, citing it as a significant loss for the South-East and Nigeria. He praised Onu’s leadership in Abia State and his dedication to scientific and technological advancement.
Chekwas Okorie expressed sadness over the loss of his friend, acknowledging Onu’s return to the Almighty. Governor Alex Otti also conveyed shock and sadness, recognizing Onu’s impact on Abia, Ebonyi, and the Igbo community.
Otti pledged to honor Onu’s legacy by advancing the democratic journey he initiated in Abia State. Former Governor Orji Kalu echoed similar sentiments, describing Onu as a committed nationalist.
Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe expressed sorrow over Onu’s passing, acknowledging his role in shaping modern-day Abia State. Former Governor Theodore Orji praised Onu’s contributions, while Okezie Ikpeazu mourned the loss of a brilliant scholar and astute democrat.
