ABUJA, Nigeria – Ogbonnaya Onu, a notable figure in Nigerian politics and the first Governor of Abia State, has passed away in an Abuja hospital, according to a tweet by Jackson Udeh, a US-based journalist and former presidential media aide.
The announcement came early Thursday, April 11, 2024, marking the end of an illustrious career that saw Onu play pivotal roles in Nigeria’s political landscape.
“First Governor of Abia State, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, has passed on this morning in an Abuja hospital. Good Night, Dr. Onu. May your soul Rest In Peace. Amen!” Udeh tweeted, paying tribute to the late politician.
A family member has confirmed the passing of the prominent politician to The Trent.
“He [Dr Ogbonnaya Onu] was ill and hospitalised for three months. He died today,” the source, who didn’t wish to be named due to the sensitivity of the development, told our Abuja correspondent.
Dr. Onu, who was 72 years old at the time of his passing, was a prominent figure in Nigeria’s political scene.
Before his death, he had resigned as a minister to pursue the presidential ticket of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2023 a testament to his continued engagement and influence in national politics despite his advancing age.
His political journey was marked by significant achievements, including his tenure as the chairman of the now-defunct All Nigerian Peoples Party (ANPP), demonstrating his leadership and commitment to Nigeria’s development across several decades.
