Dignitaries gathered in Nigeria’s capital Abuja to eulogise the late Dr. Ogbonaya Onu, former Minister of Science and Technology, with former President, Goodluck Jonathan, describing him as a man of great integrity, saying that the country would undoubtedly be a better place if it had more individuals like Dr Onu.
President Jonathan, who spoke during the Night of Tribute held in honour of the former Governor of Abia State, praised Onu’s selflessness and unwavering commitment to Nigeria, stating: “If we had one million people like him, Nigeria would be a much better place.”
He reflected on how Onu’s dedication to the country often surpassed his personal interests, lamenting that many Nigerians prioritise personal gain when given the opportunity to serve, which hinders progress.
According to him: “Onu is someone that all we are saying about him are true. Just like his daughter said, the man thought about Nigeria more than he thought about his family. What I see with most Nigerians is that once you give them small opportunity to serve, they want to get money for their great grandchildren and that makes them do things that they should not. We hardly see people who are selfless.”
Minister of Works, David Umahi, also paid a heartfelt tribute to Onu, describing him as a “trailblazer” and a shining light for both his community and the State of Ebonyi, said “he was not just a mentor to me; he was a kinsman whose integrity, intellect, and passion for excellence inspired many, particularly in Uburu Community.”
He highlighted Onu’s leadership as crucial to the political balance in the community, which had produced two Governors and two Ministers in Nigeria’s history.
Umahi further reflected on Onu’s deep connection to the Ebonyi South region, calling him a man “so loved by his entire community” that his loss was profoundly felt. “He was a blood brother to me and my wife, and a great leader whose legacy will continue to inspire generations,” Umahi added.
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, took a moment during the tribute to challenge those present to reflect on their own lives.
“This is a night to question our conscience and ask if we are truly on the right path,” Kalu remarked. “Onu’s life was defined by humility, integrity, and selflessness. How many of us in this room can say we are as selfless as he was?”
Kalu recounted how Onu, despite not being the wealthiest of politicians, generously supported younger leaders, sharing from his modest salary to help fund campaigns and resolve conflicts quietly.
“Onu was not the richest, but he had the heart of a giver. At the time when many politicians will see the younger ones as a competition, Onu would take out of his meager salary and say, “take this, use it to support your campaign,” I was a beneficiary too. He was very supportive of the new generation of leaders. He resolved many conflicts without making noise. It is not easy to be powerful and humble, but that was what he represented. That is the man we are talking about.
“You know, traditionally, we come here, we talk and we go home, but this should be an opportunity for us to reflect on our character. He should inspire us to do better,” Kalu said.
National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, also expressed deep respect for Onu’s legacy, describing him as a kind and respected politician whose contributions were significant in sustaining Nigeria’s democracy.
“Dr was a man of many firsts. He was a respected politician, a kind man. He will be remembered for his contributions to the sustenance of democracy in the country,” Ganduje said.
Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Geoffrey Nnaji, spoke on behalf of the scientific community, mourning the loss of Onu, whom he described as a pillar in the sector. “His death was a national shock, particularly for those of us in science and technology,” Nnaji said.
He specifically praised Onu for spearheading Executive Order No. 5, which prioritises local content in the nation’s technological and industrial development.