By Sandra John, Nnewi
The Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital Nnewi(NAUTH) has organised a lecture for the late Emeritus Professor Okechukwu Obiora Mbonu,who died on November 14th 2023.
The public lecture which was held at Gilbert Metu Uzodike Auditorium had the presence of the Chief Medical Director of NAUTH Prof.Joseph O.Ugboaja Ochinanwata Nnewi and his management team and many other personalities.
Amongst them were the traditional ruler of Abacha in Idemili North Local Government Area, Anambra State Igwe G.B Mbakwe,Prof.Gershom C.Ejeckam who was the chairman of the occasion, Prof.J.K.C Emejulu,two immediate past CMD,Prof. Ofieli,Prof.Igwegbe,the deceased family and many others.
The CMD in his welcome address reminded the guest present that they were there to mourn a personality who had done so much for the hospital and humanity.
He described Prof. Mbonu as a man of peace and great vision who took the hospital as his family.
He revealed that his story would not be completed without remembering Prof.Mbonu who encouraged and advised him on several occasions.
“Prof Mbonu was indeed a great counselor ” he added
Prof.Ugboaja appreciated the efforts of those who contributed immensely to the development of the hospital who had retired.
He continued by saying that those retirees, as part of his leadership principles that wish to continue giving services to the hospital would be accommodated.
Prof. Ugboaja ended his speech by appreciating the efforts of Prof.Nwofo the NAUTH CMAC,the Director of Administration Mrs J.C Ugochukwu,Mrs M.C.Onwuka Head,Corporate Affairs Department and others that ensured Prof.Mbonu received a befitting burial rites and public lecture.
Prof. Pius Okafor in his public lecture said he had both professional and personal relationships with Prof. Mbonu .
“We worked under him .He treated us well that even when one of us wedded,he was the chairman of the occasion, I was the M.C”he added
He stated that Prof. Mbonu was patriotic and continued to say that his patriotism was seen during Biafra war when he took care of the sick and the wounded people.
Prof Okafor affirmed that he was not corrupt .He revealed that when Prof
Mbonu was the CMD of NAUTH,he attracted rich Nnewi people who developed the hospital by endowing magnificent buildings.
He further pointed his innovative and administrative skills at UNTH,Enugu where he served as Chairman Medical Advisory council (CMAC) was so great.
He said that Prof Mbonu was devoted to his family,friends and humanity.
“He was a good man who did not die but transited.He left great legacy”he added
Prof. Udigwe,Provost College of Medicine, Prof. Egbeonu,Prof.Ele,Prof Igwegbe ,Prof.Anyanwu, NMA President Prof.Ezechukwu represented by Secretary NMA Dr Jide Onyekwelu and many others praised Prof Mbonu.
According to them he was a man of peace, a great adviser, his friendly nature made him a true legendary whose personality was known all over the country.
Highlights of event included appreciation speech by the second son of Prof Mbonu,Mr. O.C Mbonu on behalf of the Mbonu family present, performance by the best Flautist to send him to his maker.
