The former Governor of Abia State, Dr. Christopher Ogbonnaya Onu, CON, was laid to rest on Friday in his hometown of Uburu, Ebonyi State. Governor Alex Otti of Abia State announced the burial and also shared that Abia State Polytechnic in Aba has been renamed Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba, as a tribute to the late governor’s legacy.
In a statement on Facebook, Governor Otti expressed, “Today, we joined fellow Nigerians to bid farewell to Dr Christopher Ogbonnaya Onu, CON, former Governor of Abia State, at his hometown in Uburu, Ebonyi State. His passing in April left a significant void in our nation. My heartfelt condolences go out to Dr Onu’s family and the people of Ebonyi State.”
Reflecting on Dr. Onu’s legacy, Governor Otti noted his contributions as the first democratically elected Governor of Abia State, a former Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and a founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC). “His humility and grace were truly inspiring,” Otti remarked. He highlighted Onu’s sacrifice in 1999, when he gave up his presidential ticket to promote unity in Nigeria, showing his “deep love for the country” and commitment to his convictions.
Despite a brief tenure as governor, Dr. Onu left an enduring mark on Abia’s development. He established significant institutions, including the Abia State Polytechnic, Aba; the Abia State College of Education (Technical), Arochukwu; and the National Ambassador newspaper. His tenure also saw the establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture, now Michael Okpara University of Agriculture (MOUAU). These institutions, spread across Abia’s three senatorial districts, underscore Dr. Onu’s vision for educational and economic growth.
“In honour of his contributions, we have renamed the Abia State Polytechnic, Aba, to Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba,” Otti stated, affirming the state’s commitment to advancing Dr. Onu’s legacy.
Governor Otti concluded by saying, “Dr Onu’s story is a testament to the power of dreams and determination. We will continue to honour his memory by advancing his legacy and values with the same passion and integrity he exemplified. May his soul rest in peace.”
