Though he’s my maternal kinsman, my first political encounter with “Man Sene” was in May, 2017. I was consulting party stakeholders in a futile bid to represent Apa State Constituency and my acolyte suggested him among other notable party faithfuls to visit. He’s both calm and calculative; a mix of pragmatism and grassroots activism.
After declaring my intentions to him and passing him an envelope to entertain his supporters, he refused to take the gift and declared to me that his conscience wouldn’t let him touch my money when he’s already mobilizing for my opponent, who was his friend. He wished me well, and inadvertently, won my respect and admiration. We’ve remained in cordial terms up till his demise yesterday. What an honest man he was!
Honourable Onehi, an erstwhile local government chairman of Apa, Benue State Auditor of PDP, among other positions of responsibilities had an appeal that cuts across his close associates, friends and supporters.
For Chief Paul Mumeh, Media Adviser for former Senate President David Mark, “Man Sene, the senator representing Zone D as I fondly called him was a great friend and trusted ally. He was as a detribalized individual, always frank and friendly.” The renowned journalist prayed for the repose of the politician’s soul.
For Mr. Rex Ogwuche, a self-acclaimed dirty and former media assistant to then Benue Deputy Governor Stephen Lawani, Honourable Onehi would be greatly missed for his great sense of humour and “downright forthrightness.”
His unfortunate death dealt a big blow on Apa/Agatu at such a crucial period but we take solace in the fact that he lived his best life and affected many other lives.
May eternal lights guide him home.
Honourable Onehi will be greatly missed, he was at a time what I refer to the bridge that connects the younger politicians and the old.