A former Abia Governor, Sen. Orji Kalu, has expressed sadness over the passing of the first civilian governor of the state, Dr Ogbannaya Onu.
Kalu, in a condolence message issued by his media office in Abakaliki, described Onu, a frontline politician, author, engineer and former Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, as a nationalist with passion for unity and progress of Nigeria.
The Senate Committee Chairman on Privatisation acknowledged Onu’s invaluable contributions to nation building, even as he urged his family to be consoled, as their late patriarch lived a purposeful life.
“I urge the deceased’s children and loved ones to sustain his worthy legacies, as his death is a huge loss to Ndigbo and Nigeria in general.
“The late statesman was a consummate politician and selfless philanthropist who served meritoriously in various capacities in the public sector.
“His wise counsel on national issues will be greatly missed, as he will be remembered for his outstanding leadership qualities,” he said.
On died in an Abuja hospital on Thursday during a brief illness.
NAN also reports that the 72-year-old former governor contested for the presidential flag of the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the 2023 general election but lost to President Bola Tinubu.
