Abia govt renames Poly after late ex-Governor Onu

Eric Patrick 

Abia State government has renamed the state's Polytechnic after the former governor, late Christopher Ogbonnaya Onu.

The state's Polytechnic is now to be called Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic.

This was disclosed in a statement by the state governor, Alex Otti and shared on his Facebook page on Saturday.

The statement read,  "Today, we joined fellow Nigerians to bid farewell to Dr. Christopher Ogbonnaya Onu, CON, former Governor of Abia State, at his country home in Uburu, Ebonyi State. His passing in April left a significant void in our nation. My heartfelt condolences go out to Dr. Onu’s family and the people of Ebonyi State.

"Dr. Onu’s legacy extends beyond his political achievements. As the first democratically elected Governor of Abia State, a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and a founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), his humility and grace were truly inspiring.

"In 1999, Dr. Onu selflessly gave up his presidential ticket for the unity of Nigeria, demonstrating his deep love for the country. He lived by his convictions, always speaking the truth, regardless of the consequences.

"Despite his brief tenure as Governor of Abia, his contributions as a development-focused leader were significant. He established the Abia State Polytechnic, Aba; the Abia State College of Education (Technical), Arochukwu; and the National Ambassador newspaper. The Federal University of Agriculture, now Michael Okpara University of Agriculture (MOUAU), was also established during his tenure. These institutions, spread across the three senatorial districts of the state, highlight Dr. Onu’s strategic vision for education and economic growth.

"In honour of his contributions, we have renamed the Abia State Polytechnic, Aba to Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba.

"Dr. Onu's story is a testament to the power of dreams and determination. We will continue to honour his memory by advancing his legacy and values with the same passion and integrity he exemplified.

"May his soul rest in peace."

Onu who died in April 2024, was the first civilian Governor of Abia State between January, 1992 and November, 1993.