Jacob Ogodo, Abakaliki
Great men from all walks of life including President Bola Tinubu, Presidential candidate of the Labour party in 2023, Mr Peter Obi, and the National Chairman of All Progressive Congress, APC, Dr Umar Ganduje have described the late former Governor of Abia state, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu as a patriotic NIgerian who worked so hard for the progress, unity and stability of NIgeria.
They spoke during the burial of Onu at the Christ the King Catholic Church, Uburu, Ebonyi State.
Tinubu who was represented by the Minister of Works, Chief David Umahi described Onu as a true progressive, a quintessential politician who believed in the ideals of the progressive movement as a way to developing Nigeria.
“Onu was a true progressive, a quintessential politician who believed in the ideals of the progressive movement as a way to develop Nigeria.
“He worked tirelessly for the ideals which gave rise to the emergence of All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2015 and provided the needed leadership towards the formation of the APC from All Nigerian Peoples Party (ANPP), Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and Congress for Progressive Change (CPC),” he said.
The President noted that the APC has continued to grow in leaps and bounds and has produced two presidents since then, including him.
On his part, Obi described Onu as a defender of justice in the country.
“He was a man of integrity. He believed in justice and fairness. That is what is lacking in our society. Our society in which we live today is an unjust society,” Obi said.
In his address, Ebonyi State Governor, Chief Francis Nwifuru, noted that the former minister demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the ideals of justice, development, and unity.
He added that Onu pursued equity and social justice till his last breath on earth.
According to Nwifuru: “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 tireless energy. Under his guidance, our roads were modernized, schools were built, and our healthcare system saw advancements that impacted thousands of lives.
“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.”
“Onu 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,” Nwifuru said.
He donated N100 million for the completion of the Christ the King Catholic Church Uburu which was conceived and constructed by Onu.
The Catholic Bishop of Owerri Diocese, Archbishop Lucius Ugorji, in the funeral service held for Onu, urged people to always live with the realization that they would face death.
“Our son and father has run his own race and such is the destiny of every mortal,” he said.
