President Bola Tinubu, former President of the Senate Anyim Pius Anyim, Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 presidential elections Peter Obi, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhj. Umar Ganduje, Governors Alex Otti of Abia state, Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi and Peter Mbah of Enugu were among dignitries that bid farewell to the former governor of old Abia state and former Minister of Science and Technology Innovation, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu.
Onu was buried in his hometown Uburu, Ohaozara local government of Ebonyi state.
Others dignitaries including Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra state who was represented by his Deputy, that of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma who was represented by his Deputy.
A former Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi among other dignitaries also attended the burial of the former minister.
Onu died at the age of 72, in April 2024 this year.
Reading the tribute of President Tinubu, Minister of Works, Sen. David Umahi who represented him, described Onu as a perfect gentleman who lived a selfless life and contributed to the development of the country.
He noted that the 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.
Tinubu recalled that Onu played a significant role in the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and prayed God to bless his soul.
Governor Nwifuru in his speech described late Onu as a leader of integrity.
“We gather here today to honor the life and legacy of a true son of our land, His Excellency Dr Ogbonnaya, Christopher Onu— a man whose contributions have left an indelible mark on our state and our country—a pursuer and stickler to democratic ideals of equity and social justice.
“It is with heavy hearts that we bid farewell to someone who gave so much in service to others and whose influence will be felt for generations to come. His Excellency, Dr Ogbonnaya Christopher Onu was many things to us— a former governor, a former , and a chieftain of our party. But above all, he was a leader of integrity, driven by his passion for progress and a deep love for our people.
“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”.
