President Bola Tinubu and Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago have expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Chief Audu Ogbeh, former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and ex-Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development.
Ogbeh, aged 78, died peacefully on Saturday, according to a statement issued by his family.
In a condolence message released by his spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described Ogbeh as a “great patriot” whose intellect and dedication left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s political and policy landscape.
“Chief Audu Ogbeh was a patriot whose wisdom, dedication, and pursuit of progress left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s political landscape. He was always ready with facts and figures to support his propositions,” Tinubu stated.
He extended his condolences to Ogbeh’s family, political associates, and the people of Benue State, praying for the peaceful repose of the deceased’s soul.
Tinubu also highlighted Ogbeh’s long public service career, which included stints as Minister of Communications in the Second Republic and later as Minister of Agriculture under President Muhammadu Buhari. He was also a founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Governor Mohammed Bago, in a message issued through his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, described Ogbeh’s death as “a great loss not only to Benue State but to Nigeria as a whole.”
He praised Ogbeh’s contributions to national development through his roles in agriculture, politics, and the arts, recalling his legacy as a respected elder statesman and accomplished playwright.
“The elder statesman will surely be remembered for his proficiency and impact on agriculture, politics, and playwriting,” Bago said.
Governor Bago extended his sympathies to the Benue State Government, Governor Hyacinth Alia, the Och’Idoma HRM John Elaigwu Odogbo, and the family of the deceased.
