The 2023 Labour Party, LP Presidential Candidate, Mr Peter Obi has lamented highly an unjust spirit enveloping the Nigeria's leadership system as the corpse of the former Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, late Dr Ogbonnaya Onu was buried at the weekend.
Obi in an interview with journalists during Onu's burial ceremony in Uburu, Ohaozara local government area of Ebonyi State, observed that Nigerians are yet to reward the citizens who had demonstrated integrity spirit in terms of leadership both in the public and private entities.
He described Onu, the former governor of old Abia State as a rare humanitarian leader and man of integrity, who was determined to boost the unity of Nigeria through political leadership in his lifetime.
Obi, the former governor of Anambra State said: "Above all, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu was a man of integrity, possessed by spirit of equity, fairness and social justice; and that's what we lack in Nigeria as a nation. Nigerians are not caring who are demonstrating these virtues."
It could be recalled that President Bola Tinubu while bidding farewell to Dr Onu, described him as a perfect gentleman and a symbol of peace, unity, and prosperity in Nigeria. Tinubu also described Onu as a selfless leader whose leadership ideal would continue to inspire oneness, equity and fairness in the country and beyond.
The President, represented by the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, further stated that Onu was a committed progressive leader and dedicated to the service of the nation and humanity during his lifetime.
Tinubu insisted that Onu would be remembered for his unwavering commitment to the unity and progress of Nigeria, which he demonstrated in the various services he rendered to the nation.
He commended Onu's tenacity of purpose towards promoting the progressive movement that gave rise to the birth of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the eventual emergence of the party in the Presidential election of 2015.
Also, Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State said that Onu played a vital role in the development of the country, and expressed worry that he did not live to see and enjoy his desire for equity and social justice in the context of the Igbo presidency.
“Through every role he held, he demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the ideals of justice, development, and unity. He pursued equity and social justice till his last breath on earth. His Excellency, Dr Onu dedicated himself wholly, not just to building infrastructure while serving as Governor of Abia State from where some part of Ebonyi politically and sociologically grew, but to building people, uniting communities, and elevating the voices of those who often were unheard. In his time as governor of Old Abia state, His Excellency Dr Ogbonnaya Christopher Onu led with vision and tireless energy. Under his guidance, our roads were modernized, schools were built, and our healthcare system saw advancements that impacted thousands of lives.
”I am pretty sure years after leaving office, successive administrations consolidated his legacies because the policies and programs of his government were all people-centric —making it impossible for other administrations to abandon. His vision wasn’t limited to his tenure; he dreamed of a future where this state would be a beacon of excellence and prosperity.
”Today, as we reflect on his achievements, we see that his dream is still alive and growing. As a Minister of Science and Technology— Dr Onu took that same spirit to the national level, advocating for our region and pushing forward policies that uplifted communities across the country. He was instrumental in fostering relationships that brought development and innovation to our people. He wore the mantle of leadership with dignity, advocating tirelessly for our rights, and standing as a pillar of support for those in need.
“Within our party, the All Progressives Congress, he was a chieftain who guided us with wisdom and grace. His values, his words, and his humility reminded us all of the principles that unite us... even in challenging times, his loyalty never wavered nor faltered—his dedication to the people was steadfast.
“He built bridges, inspired generations, and left an enduring example of what true leadership should be. It is sad that to say His Excellency Dr Ogbonnaya Christopher Onu did not live to see and enjoy his desire and quest for equity and social justice in the context of the Igbo presidency. Only God knows why," Nwifuru said.
