Nigeria’s political and diplomatic circles have been thrown into mourning following the death of Chief Audu Ogbeh, former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), ex-Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, and one of the country’s most respected elder statesmen.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former President Olusegun Obasanjo led a chorus of tributes, describing Ogbeh as a patriotic leader, a man of deep intellect, and an unwavering believer in Nigeria’s democratic project.
In a heartfelt message issued on Saturday by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, from Uganda where he is currently on a working visit, Obasanjo expressed profound sadness over the passing of the Benue-born political icon. He described Ogbeh as “peace-loving, unassuming, committed, and a firm believer in democracy”.
Obasanjo reflected on Ogbeh’s remarkable political journey, which spanned decades and bridged both military and democratic eras. From serving as Deputy Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly in the 1970s, to his appointment as Minister of Communications (1982–1983), and later as PDP National Chairman (2001–2005), Ogbeh’s career was a testament to political resilience and principled leadership. His tenure as Minister of Agriculture and Food Security (2015–2019) further cemented his legacy as a reform-minded public servant dedicated to the nation’s growth.
> “Ever since, he built for himself an impressive profile of immense goodwill and affection among his people as a frontline politician and community leader. Chief Audu Ogbeh will be missed for his unwavering commitment to politics, governance, and democracy, as he made significant contributions to the re-establishment of democracy in Nigeria. His place will be very difficult to fill within his community, the state, the party, and the nation,” Obasanjo stated.
“May God console his wife and the entire family. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
President Tinubu, in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, lauded Ogbeh’s intellectual depth, policy expertise, and unwavering patriotism. He recalled Ogbeh’s decades-long political engagement, noting that he was a founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and a trusted voice in national discourse.
> “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. The nation will sorely miss his insightful perspectives and wealth of experience,” Tinubu said.
The President prayed for God’s comfort over the grieving family and for the peaceful repose of Ogbeh’s soul, while also extending condolences to the people of Benue State, political associates, and admirers across the nation.
Chief Audu Ogbeh’s passing marks the end of an era for Nigerian politics — a chapter defined by courage, service, and unshakable faith in democracy. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of leaders committed to the nation’s progress.
PIONEER NEWS 