The Abia State government has renamed the Aba Polytechnic in honor of Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, the state’s first democratically elected governor and a former Minister of Science and Technology. Governor Alex Otti made this announcement on Thursday during a commendation service held in Umuahia, the state capital, celebrating Dr. Onu’s contributions to Abia and Nigeria.
“Dr. Onu’s impact reaches far beyond his political career,” Governor Otti remarked, highlighting Onu’s leadership roles, including his time as national chairman of the All Nigerian Peoples Party (ANPP) and his involvement in the All Progressives Congress (APC) as both a national leader and presidential aspirant. Otti also praised Onu’s humility and resilience, particularly in the face of adversity.
The Catholic Bishop of Umuahia Diocese, Most Rev. Michael Ukpong, also honored Dr. Onu’s contributions to Abia, noting his pivotal role in establishing the BCA Radio/TV station, tertiary institutions, and the iconic Abia Tower of Peace, which remains a symbol of the state’s identity.
Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, a native of Ebonyi State, served as the governor of the old Abia State from 1992 to 1993. He passed away on April 11, 2024, at the age of 72, leaving a lasting legacy as a chemical engineer, educator, and respected political figure.
