President of the 9th Senate, Senator Ahmad Lawan, has mourned the demise of Nigeria’s former Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu.
Onu, who was the first civilian governor of Abia state; a former minister under the past administration, and contestant in the June 2022 presidential primaries of the All Progressives Congress (APC), died Thursday, at the age of 72 after a brief illness.
Reacting to the news of his death, Senator Lawan, in a statement issued in Abuja, describesd the deceased as a prominent figure in Nigerian politics whose illustrious career was defined by his integrity and passion for good governance.
He added that Onu’s legacies would continue to inspire leaders to be patriotic and strive for a better Nigeria.
The statement reads, “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Ogbonnaya Onu, a true patriot and dedicated public servant.
“Onu was a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, who served with integrity and passion throughout his illustrious career.
“As the first civilian governor of Abia state, Onu successfully implemented policies that promoted economic growth and development in the region..
“He later went on to serve as the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari from 2015 to 2022, where he contributed significantly towards advancing Nigeria’s science and technology sector.
“Onu was a visionary leader who worked tirelessly to improve the lives of all Nigerians. His commitment to service and his dedication to the betterment of our country will always be remembered.
“I offer my deepest condolences to Onu’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. His legacies will continue to inspire us all to strive for a better Nigeria.”
Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (APGA Abia South), has expressed shock and sadness on the death of the first executive governor of Abia state, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu.
Abaribe in a statement by his Media Adviser, Uchenna Awom in Abuja Thursday said Dr Onu’s death is a huge loss to Nigeria, Ebonyi and Abia states.
Dr. Onu, he said, charted the course for the modern day Abia state such that he is still being remembered for long after Afikpo was carved out of the state.
“As the first civilian governor of the state, he laid a solid foundation for which the God’s Own State became the first in all ramifications in the committee of states in Nigeria.”
