By Dr. Nafisat Makinde
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to the late former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Innocent Ogbeh, describing him as a patriot, democrat, and statesman whose uncommon dedication left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s development.
The President’s condolence message was delivered on his behalf by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, during the funeral service held in Ogbeh’s hometown, Benue State, on Saturday, September 27, 2025.
“The President profoundly appreciates the contributions of the late Audu Ogbeh to the growth of our nation in various capacities — as Minister, Special Adviser, National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and later as a key figure in the committee that midwifed the emergence of the All Progressives Congress (APC), which has led Nigeria since 2015,” Akume said.
President Tinubu emphasized that Ogbeh’s legacy of selfless service, deep commitment to democratic ideals, and dedication to national unity remain worthy of emulation. “He lived a fulfilled life as a patriot with great track records that generations of Nigerians can look up to,” the statement read.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Adegbeope Ogbeh, son of the late statesman, expressed profound gratitude to the President, government officials, and Nigerians for the support shown to the family. He added that his father “ran a good race and finished his course,” and that the family is determined to uphold his sterling legacies.
The funeral service drew a wide array of dignitaries, including the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev; former Minister of Labour and Productivity, Dr. Chris Ngige; Senator representing Benue North-West, Dr. Titus Tartenger Zam; Managing Director of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Dr. Akutah Pius Ukeyima; members of the National Assembly, traditional rulers, and well-wishers who came from across the country to honour Ogbeh’s memory.
