Former Minister of Culture and Tourism, Ambassador Frank Ogbuewu has said that the death of former Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu is quite devastating, sad, and unexpected.
He said he was shocked when he received the news of his death, saying that Onu was a man so humble and loved by his people, Ebonyi state, Nigeria and beyond.
Onu died on Thursday, aged 72, at an undisclosed hospital in Abuja, during a brief illness. He hailed from Uburu in Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi state.
Ogbuewu, also a former ambassador said Onu was a gentleman to the core, a strong political force as his contemporary and sound intellectual.
He said ”we have lost a worthy statesman who believed so much in the unity, peace, progress and development of the country.”
According to the astute politician, “I received the news with a rude shock. He was not just an Ebonyi man but we were contemporary in politics. We contested in our party in the first governorship attempt in Ebonyi state when the state was created.
“We have remained close and even in December he called to congratulate me on my birthday. So, he has been a very wonderful person and a very peaceful personality.
“His contribution to the growth of Ebonyi state and Nigeria is huge. We will miss him. May he rest in perfect peace.”
Ogbuewu noted further that the late former civilian governor of Abia state had illustrious career in academics, public service and an advocate of good governance, transparency and accountability.
He consoled the family of the deceased, Ebonyi people and Nigerians over the loss.