The Nigerian Senate has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the former Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, who passed away on April 11, 2024, after a brief illness.
The Senate adopted a motion sponsored by Senator Anthony Ani (APC-Ebonyi) under “Urgent Matter of Public Importance,” mourning the loss of Dr. Onu, whom Senator Ani described as a significant loss to the nation.
Senator Ani praised Dr. Onu as a symbol of excellence and an academic stalwart in Nigeria, citing his exceptional academic achievements and pioneering contributions to the field of chemical engineering.
Seconding the motion, Senator Orji Kalu (APC-Abia) lauded Dr. Onu’s character and his contributions to Nigeria’s unity and stability.
Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jubrin (APC-Kano), hailed Dr. Onu’s integrity and humility, emphasising his role in promoting internal democracy and his contributions to the formation of the APC.
Senator Abba Moro (PDP-Benue) praised Dr. Onu’s commitment to Nigeria’s development and his sacrifices for peace and stability. Several other senators, including Senator Ali Ndume, Senator Danjuma Goje, and Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, paid heartfelt tributes to the late former Minister.
In his remarks, Senate President Godswill Akpabio highlighted Dr. Onu’s instrumental role in the formation of the APC and praised his simplicity, integrity, and dedication to the nation’s welfare.
The Senate observed a minute of silence in honour of Dr. Onu and called on the Federal Government to immortalise his legacy. Additionally, a seven-man delegation was constituted to visit and offer condolences to Dr. Onu’s family.
The delegation, chaired by Senator Ashiru Oyelola, includes Senators Abba Moro, Enyinnaya Abaribe, Seriake Dickson, Anthony Ani, Ireti Kingibe, and Idiat Oluranti.
Born on December 1, 1951, in Uburu, Ebonyi State, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu began his political career in the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) and later served as the first executive governor of Abia State. He was appointed Minister of Science and Technology in 2015 and again in 2019, resigning from office on May 11, 2022. Dr. Onu passed away at the age of 72.