Sir Rex Onyeabo, former PDP National Secretary, remembered for his decades-long service in Nigerian politics. Pic: NAN
Sir Rex Onyeabo held multiple traditional titles, including Eze-Ugo 1 of the Abuja Igbo Community, Onwa na-etili Ora 1 of Ugbawka, Ijele 1 na Akaegbe-Ugwu, and Ada-Idaha of the Efik Kingdom. His prominent roles in both politics and public service have earned him wide respect across Nigeria.
Sir Rex Onyeabo Contributions to Nigerian Politics and Public Service
Onyeabo was a founding member of the PDP, serving as its National Secretary in 1999 and later as a member of the PDP Board of Trustees until his death. His leadership within the party helped shape the trajectory of Nigerian politics in the early years of democratic governance following the end of military rule.
A veteran of Nigerian politics, Onyeabo contributed to the PDP’s foundational policies and internal governance frameworks, establishing mechanisms that continue to influence party operations.
His tenure in the National Secretary role coincided with the party’s critical transition into national leadership following Nigeria’s return to democracy.
PDP National Secretary Legacy and Influence Across Federal Institutions
Beyond politics, Sir Rex Onyeabo was deeply involved in public service. He served in multiple capacities at both federal and state levels.
Notably, he was deputy chairman of the governing board of the Federal Capital Development Authority and chairman of the governing council at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital.
His leadership extended to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital and the Nike Lake Resort Hotels in Enugu. In addition, he served as Permanent Secretary in the Enugu State Ministry of Works, Housing, and Transport.
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Onyeabo also contributed to the Local Government Services Commission and chaired the Institute of Directors in Abuja, demonstrating commitment to infrastructural and institutional development.
Sir Rex Onyeabo graduated from Carnegie Mellon University in the United States, specializing in engineering. Upon returning to Nigeria, he applied his technical expertise to both business and public service sectors, providing a foundation for effective governance and leadership.
In addition to public service, Onyeabo ran several successful companies, expanding his influence within the private sector.
He was a member of the Noble Order of Knights of St. Mulumba and actively engaged in Abuja and Enugu Catholic communities, reinforcing his status as a well-rounded leader with lasting impact.
The Onyeabo family stated that funeral arrangements will be announced in due course and requested prayers from friends, associates, and the wider public during this period of mourning.
Sir Rex Onyeabo’s contributions as PDP National Secretary and public servant have left a significant legacy.
His tenure coincided with Nigeria’s post-military democratic consolidation, and his leadership roles across multiple institutions underscore his influence on both party politics and national governance.
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Onyeabo’s work within the PDP and public institutions highlights the interconnected nature of politics, governance, and community service in Nigeria.
From engineering and infrastructure to healthcare and education, Onyeabo’s multifaceted career exemplifies integrated leadership and dedication to national development.
