Audu Ogbeh, a prominent Nigerian politician and former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, has passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at the age of 78.
The late Ogbeh was also a former chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from 2001 to 2005 and served as Minister of Communications in the early 1980s.
Born on July 28, 1947, Ogbeh’s distinguished career spanned several decades, beginning with his role as deputy speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly in 1979.
He was appointed communications minister under President Shehu Shagari between 1982 and 1983 and later served as Minister of Agriculture during President Muhammadu Buhari’s first term from 2015 to 2019.
Ogbeh was widely respected as an elder statesman, known for his integrity, service, and dedication to Nigeria.
Beyond politics, he was a noted playwright and farmer, contributing to Nigerian literature and agriculture.
Condolences have poured in from political leaders and the public alike, including from President Bola Tinubu, who praised Ogbeh’s intellectual contributions to national policy and governance. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo remembered him as a committed patriot and peace-loving figure who significantly impacted Nigeria’s democracy.
The Ogbeh family has asked for privacy during this period of mourning. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in due course.
Ogbeh’s legacy as a steadfast public servant and influential political figure remains deeply ingrained in Nigeria’s political and cultural history.
