A distinguished member of the House of Representatives from Lagos State, Hon. Okey-Joe Onuakalusi, has joined the nation in mourning the passing of former Abia State Governor and elder statesman, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, describing him as “a man who ennobled politics with virtue.”

In a heartfelt statement issued on Monday in Abuja, the lawmaker representing Oshodi/Isolo II Federal Constituency celebrated the life, character, and legacy of Dr. Onu, noting that his calm composure and unwavering optimism stood out as defining features throughout his public career.

According to Onuakalusi, “If there is any special trait readily noticeable in Dr. Onu, it is his calm composure and permanent exudation of sanguinity. Many have testified that they hardly ever saw him in a state of distress or unease.”

He added that despite a lifetime spent navigating the often turbulent terrain of Nigerian politics, Dr. Onu managed to do so without accumulating animosity or controversy. “Despite being a consummate politician, how Dr. Onu navigated the murky waters of active politics without amassing enemies is, for many, the mark of genius. No one ever spoke ill of him—he was known for his Spartan discipline and high ethics.”

A Man of Steadfast Conviction

Hon. Onuakalusi described Dr. Onu as a man who meant many positive things to different people. For countless Nigerians, he was the embodiment of consistency and dependability: “His word was his bond. He was steady, unfazed, upbeat, and unyielding like the Rock of Gibraltar.”

He recalled how Dr. Onu remained committed to the opposition through multiple political evolutions—from the APP, to the ANPP, and eventually the APC—even when it seemed politically unwise. While many of his peers frequently switched allegiances for personal gain, Dr. Onu stayed true to his principles. His constancy would ultimately be rewarded in 2015 when the APC swept the polls, after which he was appointed Minister of Science and Technology.

A Bridge-Builder and Detribalized Nigerian

Hon. Onuakalusi highlighted Dr. Onu’s belief in unity, equity, and nation-building. Though proudly Igbo, he transcended ethnic boundaries and built friendships across Nigeria’s diverse communities. His involvement in the Ohanaeze Ndigbo as a unifying force reflected a deep commitment to the welfare and advancement of the Igbo people.

Yet, as Onuakalusi noted, “He was not narrowly confined by his Igboness; he saw it as a springboard for broad connection.” This inclusive outlook was evident early in his political career when, in the Second Republic, he contested for the Senate under the National Party of Nigeria (NPN)—a platform less ethnically inclined than the NPP.

Dr. Onu went on to win the Abia State governorship under the National Republican Convention (NRC), choosing principle over popularity at a time when the Social Democratic Party (SDP) dominated the region.

A Scholar, Teacher, and Champion of Education

Although widely known as a career politician, Dr. Onu never drifted away from his academic roots. A scholar and teacher at heart, he championed education and youth development with passion.

During his tenure as Governor of Abia State, he established the Abia State Polytechnic, Aba, and the College of Education, Arochukwu. He also facilitated the establishment of the Michael Okpara Federal University of Agriculture, Umudike, leaving an enduring mark on the state’s educational landscape.

A Gentle Statesman Whose Integrity Endures

Hon. Onuakalusi described the late elder statesman as a “graceful gentleman” guided by the timeless principle of pacta sunt servanda—agreements must be kept. Dr. Onu’s humility, sincerity, integrity, and humanity, he noted, made him a rare breed in Nigerian politics.

“He eschewed inordinate ambition and was guided by patriotism and the need to serve humanity through political office. His rectitude and simplicity set him apart,” Onuakalusi said.

A Legacy That Lives On

As Nigeria reflects on the life and contributions of Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, Hon. Okey-Joe Onuakalusi emphasizes that the nation has lost a leader whose life exemplified honour, discipline, and service. His legacy—as a teacher, governor, minister, bridge-builder, and gentleman—will continue to inspire generations.