Former Minister of State for Foreign affairs Chief Dubem Onyia has sadly passed away at the age of 73. According to his family, he died on Monday, March 10, after a brief illness, surrounded by his loved ones.
The family of the deceased confirmed this in a statement which read “it is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Hon. Chief Dubem Onyia , a distinguished stateman and former honourable minister of state for foreign affairs,
He passed away on Monday, following a brief spell of illness- sorounded by his family and loved ones
The statement read “Chief Onyia dedicated his life to God and public service, leaving an indelible mark on Nigerian’s diplomatic landscape at home and overseas.
Follow the NaijaEyes Blog for more updates on WhatsApp
“His tenure as minister of state foreign affairs was marked by his unwavering commitment to national interest, which remains his legacy.
“He was devoted husband, father, brother, a trailblazer, a respected leader, a mentor to many and a man of great integrity.
“His contributions extended beyond government service, touching the lives of many through his wisdom, generosity and dedication to improve lives.
“Chief Onyia is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, siblings, many relatives, political allies and friend. Details of the funeral will be announced in due course”
The Governor of Enugu state Peter Mbah reacting to the sad news of Chief Onyia’s death described the incident as a huge loss to the state and the nation at large.
In a statement he signed on Tuesday, the governor paid his tribute to the late politician, describing the deceased as a distinguished leader , diplomat, and patriot who dedicated his life public service at varying levels.
Follow the NaijaEyes Blog for more updates on WhatsApp
Governor Mbah’s statement read “Ndi Enugu received a deep sense of grief and loss, the passing of statesman and former minister of state, foreign affairs , Chief Dubem Gideon Onyia, aged 73.
“He contributed immensely to Nigeria’s constitutional and political development as Member, 1988/1998 Constituent Assembly in Abuja, Secretary General of the Eastern Mandate Union, National Secretary of the Peoples Consensus Party as well as founding member and later as national officer of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), among others.
“He was indeed a fine gentleman, philanthropist, promoter of peace, justice and equity, and indeed a colossus in all ramifications, whose selfless service, wealth of experience, deep knowledge, and local and international reach will be highly missed,” the governor said.
The governor added, “On behalf of the Government and good people of Enugu State, I send heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, the people of Ngwo, and indeed millions of Nigerians whose lives were directly and indirectly touched by the distinguished service of this great patriot.
“Importantly, I pray God to grant his fine soul eternal repose.”
The former house of representative member had served as the minister of state for foreign affairs for 5 years (1999-2023) under the Olusegun Obasanjo led administration.
He was also on the board of trustees for Shehu Musa Yar’Adua foundation.
Join Our Social Media Channels:
WhatsApp: NaijaEyes
Facebook: NaijaEyes
Twitter: NaijaEyes
Instagram: NaijaEyes
TikTok: NaijaEyes
