Former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and one-time Minister, Chief Audu Innocent Ogbeh, is dead. He died on Saturday at the age of 78.
His family confirmed the death in a statement, describing him as a man of integrity, service, and dedication to Nigeria and his community.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Chief Audu Ogbeh,” the statement read. “He passed away on August 9, 2025, at the fulfilled age of 78.”
The family said they take solace in the many lives he touched and the example he set. They also appealed for privacy as they mourn. Funeral arrangements will be announced later.
Born on July 28, 1947, in Otukpo, Benue State, Ogbeh attended King’s College, Lagos, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and the University of Toulouse, France. He started as a lecturer before going into politics.
He was deputy speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly between 1979 and 1982 and served as Minister of Communications in 1982, Minister of Steel Development in 1983, and Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development from 2015 to 2019.
Ogbeh was PDP National Chairman from 2001 to 2005 but resigned over political disagreements during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration.
He later joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) where he played a key role in agricultural reforms, focusing on food security and rural development.
Apart from politics, Ogbeh was a farmer, playwright, and community leader. He ran Efugo Farms in Makurdi and wrote plays such as The Belated Bridegroom and Epitaph for Simon Kisulu. He also held traditional titles including Ochagwu Idomaland and Oka Ome of Iseagu.
The family thanked friends, colleagues, and well-wishers for their support and prayers.
