Former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, has paid tribute to the late Dunu Chu Okongwu, describing him as one of Nigeria’s finest minds and a model of integrity in public service.

Obi, who returned from engagements in London, arrived in Abuja to honour Okongwu, who had served the nation in various capacities, including as Minister of National Planning, Minister of Finance, and Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources under the administration of Gen. Ibrahim Babangida.

Reflecting on Okongwu’s contributions to national development, Obi praised his dedication, integrity, and modest lifestyle, noting that despite holding influential positions, he remained free from corruption and personal enrichment.

“He was a man of integrity who not only served the nation faithfully but worked tirelessly for our national development,” Obi stated. “Despite his enviable positions, he only had two houses—one in Enugu and one in his home village.”

Obi highlighted Okongwu’s refusal to succumb to self-aggrandizement, unlike many in public office today. He recalled how, as Minister of Finance, Okongwu advised Gen. Babangida on licensing new banks but refrained from using his position for personal gain. Similarly, as Petroleum Minister, he neither allocated oil blocks to himself nor influenced oil import licenses for personal benefit.

“If he had used his position of service to enrich himself rather than work for the nation, he would have been celebrated, and his funeral would have been glamorised by dignitaries because we are in a nation that still celebrates criminals,” Obi remarked.

He emphasized the need for today’s leaders to learn from Okongwu’s legacy of service and self-discipline.

“I have come to bid him farewell, and I do hope that we, the leaders, will learn from his good legacies,” he said, offering prayers for Okongwu’s soul and comfort for his family.

Okongwu’s passing marks the loss of a statesman known for his intellect, discipline, and commitment to Nigeria’s progress.