On Friday, the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, joined numerous esteemed Nigerians in paying tribute to the late elder statesman and former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Chief Dubem Onyia, describing him as a legendary figure whose influence touched many lives.
Governor Mbah delivered his heartfelt remarks during a well-attended funeral mass held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Ngwo, which was officiated by the Catholic Bishop of Enugu, Most Reverend Callistus Onaga.
“We are gathered here today to pay our last respects to a legendary figure, a moral giant, and a man whose shoulders were a ladder of success for many.
“Sir Dubem Onyia, as I noted, was quite exemplary; a man whose light shone on all those that encountered him. There is no doubt that the void that his exit has created will be very difficult to fill. But I will urge us to find solace in the impactful life that he had lived. His life was inspiring, and he inspired a lot of us.
“So, we would hold the family very tight in our prayers. I will also implore everyone to remember that it is God who gives, and it is also Him that takes,” he stated.
The Governor encouraged the family, friends, and relations to find comfort in the promise of eternal life for Chief Onyia and all departed saints. “I do not think I will say more than anything that was said in the scripture – that we are not hopeless. So, may his soul continue to rest in peace,” he concluded.
In his homily, Very Rev. Fr. Franklin Eze reflected on the significance of the funeral mass as a Christian rite of passage, urging the living to recognise the vanity of life and to strive to leave a meaningful legacy. He commemorated Chief Onyia as a man who made a significant mark politically, religiously, and socially, highlighting the distinction between heroes like him, characterised by selflessness and sacrifice, and villains, who embody selfishness.
The funeral service was attended by numerous dignitaries, including the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi; former governor of old Anambra State, Senator Jim Nwobodo, and his wife Patricia; former governors Senator Orji Uzor Kalu of Abia State and Senator Sam Egwu of Ebonyi State; Senate Minority Whip Senator Osita Ngwu; and the Chairman of the National Burial Committee for Chief Dubem Onyia, Senator Ben Obi, among many others.
