By Jude Michael
The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has expressed profound condolences on the passing of former Governor of Abia State and Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu.
Onu, a distinguished politician, died in Abuja at the age of 72 years.
Soludo, in his condolence message, commended what he described as the outstanding leadership qualities of the deceased and the sterling contributions he made in diverse spheres of public service in his lifetime.
The governor noted that Dr. Onu’s impressive legacy extended far beyond his tenure as a state governor.
The Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Christian Aburime, in a press release on behalf of Soludo, said: ‘A former lecturer and the first civilian Governor of Abia State, Onu also served Nigeria selflessly in numerous capacities, including as Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, in former President Buhari’s Administration; and as a former national chairman of the All Nigeria’s People’s Party (ANPP).
‘Dr. Onu was a leader known for his steadfast principles, decency and simplicity. His contributions to national development, from his role as the first chairman of the Conference of Nigerian Elected Governors to his advocacy for scientific advancement, will be deeply missed.
‘The governor offers his sincerest condolences to Dr. Onu’s family, friends, and associates, as well as the Government and people of Abia State, during this difficult time, praying that God grant them comfort and strength as they mourn his loss.’