KEY POINTS
- Jonathan and political leaders pay tribute to the life of service and integrity of Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu.
- Onu’s humility, patriotism, and commitment to unity of Nigeria is what Speaker Kalu has to say about him.
- Apart from being a contributor to science and technology, Onu also helps mentor the next generation.
In Abuja, former President Goodluck Jonathan, House of Representatives Speaker Benjamin Kalu and other political leaders visited the former home of the defunct party on the Yar’Adua Centre to pay their tribute to the late Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, describing him as a leader who lived an exemplary life of integrity, patriotism and deep public service.
“The ‘Night of Tributes’Â commemorate Drs Onu’s life and accomplishment especially his impact on Nigierias political landscape and advancement in technology.”
The legacy of material wealth
According to a tribute by former President Jonathan, Onu dedicated his life to public service. He had legacy not of material wealth but the knowledge and wisdom which he shared through the plethora of books he published.
Onu’s visionary work in the Ministry of Science and Technology was reflected byjonathan who said he was of the belief technology could be an alternative revenue source forNigeria, but not because of an absence of the ‘Nigeria factors,’ which include infrastructural inadequacies.
Jonathan remembered Onu’s capacity to handle issues with grace and optimism, and as a tribute he had a warm and humorous view on the photos that showed Onu’s smiling face that adorned the venue.
The wise man is a leader of integrity and humility.
A man of unyielding integrity and simplicity, Dr. Onu was committed to inspiring the younger generation with his humility and dedication to the nation’s unity, House of Representatives Speaker Benjamin Kalu said Friday. Onu also supported my campaign without seeing me first – as an example of how patriotic and generous he is, ‘ Kalu added.
“He invested all his time in the affairs of mankind, not in acquiring wealth,” Kalu said. “Men like Dr. Onu inspire us by the wealth of their character.” He affirmed that Onu’s tenure as a governor of Abia State and as a promoter who unflinchingly tried to mend fissures in Nigeria would remain indelible.
Honoring a trailblazer And mentor
Ebonyi State Governor, Chief David Umahi, described Onu ‘a trailblazer and pillar of leadership’ not only of their community of Uburu, but also of Ebonyi State in general. Onu’s intellectual prowess, love for excellence and integrity made him a source of inspiration to many.
In addition Chief Clement Ebri, former governor of Cross River State said, Onu also embodies leadership qualities, as he had been chairman of the country’s governors forum when he was governor. Ebri also mourned Onu’s passing, adding that he was the 16th governor from their generation to pass.
