Governor Alex Otti has officially renamed Abia State Polytechnic in Aba after Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, the first governor of Abia State, who passed away in April at the age of 72.
The announcement was made on Thursday during a Commendation Service held at the International Conference Center in Umuahia to honor Dr. Onu’s contributions.
Dr. Onu, who also served as the Minister for Science, Technology, and Innovation, was celebrated by Governor Otti for his instrumental role in the state’s development.
“We as a state have decided to immortalize him by renaming the Abia State Polytechnic, Aba after him. The Polytechnic will henceforth be known as Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba,” Otti announced.
The governor highlighted Dr. Onu’s impact, noting his efforts in founding the Abia State Polytechnic and Abia State College of Education (Technical) and supporting the establishment of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture.
He praised Onu’s vision of establishing educational institutions across the three senatorial districts, which demonstrated his strategic approach to leadership and commitment to empowering Abia through education and economic growth.
Reflecting on Dr. Onu’s patriotism, Otti recalled his decision in 1999 to sacrifice his presidential ambitions for national unity, demonstrating his dedication to Nigeria’s future.
“He was an important voice for democracy, a true nationalist and patriot who saw beyond the narrow prism of ethnicity and religion,” said Otti, commending Onu’s inclusive vision of citizenship.
The governor expressed sorrow over the loss, describing it as a significant social and political gap that would be challenging to fill.
He prayed for comfort for Onu’s family and the people of Ebonyi State, encouraging them to carry forward his legacy of service and integrity.
In a homily, Bishop Michael Ukpong of the Umuahia Catholic Diocese emphasised the importance of living a life of impact, noting that Onu left a lasting mark in Abia through achievements like the Abia Tower of Peace and the Broadcasting Corporation of Abia.
The ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, chair of the National burial planning committee, and other notable figures.
