Ohakim Mourns Loss of Ogbonnaya Onu, Politician Who Championed ‘Politics Without Bitterness’

Former Governor of Imo State, Ikedi Ohakim, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Ogbonnaya Onu.

In a statement, Ohakim praised Onu for his dedication to “politics without bitterness” and lamented the loss of a “rare gem” whose experience and wisdom are sorely needed in Nigeria today.

Ogbonnaya Onu, who was also the first civilian governor of Abia State, passed away in Abuja on Thursday, after battling an undisclosed illness.

His last significant public appearance was during the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election in 2022, where he voiced concerns about the perceived injustice against the people of the Southeast.

Onu, a prominent figure in the APC, was appointed as the Minister of Science and Technology by President Muhammadu Buhari in November 2015.

He resigned from this position on May 6, 2022, to pursue the APC presidential ticket, a race that was ultimately won by President Bola Tinubu.

In his statement, Ohakim highlighted Onu’s qualities as a “fine gentleman, unassuming, and truly living up to the ideals of politics without bitterness.”

He further emphasized that Nigeria has lost a “rare gem” whose maturity, brilliance, and wealth of experience in national service are sorely needed during this crucial period of the nation’s history.

The news of Onu’s death has shocked and saddened many Nigerians, who recognize the significant contributions he made to the country’s political landscape and the advancement of science and technology.

As a nation mourns the loss of a distinguished statesman, the legacy of Ogbonnaya Onu serves as a reminder of the importance of unity, integrity, and dedication to public service.