Late Commissioner Sunny Onwuma Laid to Rest as Governor Otti Pledges Continued Government Support
The late Comrade Sunny Okebugwu Nwanganga Onwuma, former Commissioner for Labour and Productivity in Abia State, was laid to rest in his hometown of Ihie-Obuaku, Isiala Ihie Autonomous Community, Ugwunagbo Local Government Area, in an emotionally charged ceremony that drew dignitaries from across the state.
The burial service, officiated by the Anglican Church and held at the Community Primary School, Mbaso Ihie-Obuaku, was attended by the Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, who expressed deep sorrow over the loss of a man he called a “friend and brother.”
In his heartfelt tribute, Governor Otti recalled efforts made by the state to save Onwuma’s life, stating that despite their best attempts, “God had a different purpose.”
“It is very painful to be here to bid farewell to a colleague, a friend, a brother, a strong voice in the cabinet of Abia State Government,” the governor said. “We fought for him to be alive, but we lost the fight.”
Governor Otti emphasized the importance of a meaningful life over longevity and assured the bereaved family that the Abia State Government would not abandon them.
“He lived well. We are all gathered here today because of how impactful his life was,” Otti noted, calling on others to live in a way that leaves lasting legacies.
Comrade Ogbonnaya Okoro, Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Abia State, described Onwuma as a committed unionist who worked tirelessly for workers’ welfare. He thanked Governor Otti for honoring their fallen comrade and supporting the family.
Sir Onyii Wamah, First Vice President of the Old Boys Association of Government College Umuahia, praised Onwuma as a faithful and active member, expressing gratitude for the Governor’s continuous support.
Delivering the sermon, Rt. Rev. Dr. Christian Ugwuzor, Bishop of Aba Diocese (Anglican Communion), highlighted the importance of upright living in preparation for eternal reward. He described Onwuma as a compassionate man of integrity who contributed to both church and society.
In an emotional funeral oration, Mr. Gooddestiny Nmesoma Onwuma, son of the deceased, described his father as “a voice of the voiceless, a man of integrity, a unionist, and a devoted Christian.” He thanked Governor Otti and everyone present for their support during the family’s time of grief.
The funeral was graced by dignitaries including the Governor’s wife, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, Hon. Munachim Alozie (member representing Ugwunagbo, Osisioma and Obingwa Federal Constituency), members of the Abia State House of Assembly, State Executive Council, mayors, clergy, traditional rulers, and other well-wishers.
Late Comrade Sunny Onwuma, a former TUC Chairman in Abia, died at the age of 62 and is survived by his wife, Mrs. Stella Ngozi Onwuma, five children, and numerous relatives.
