President Bola Tinubu has joined former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and other dignitaries in mourning the former minister of agriculture and ex-national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Audu Ogbeh.
Mr Ogbeh died on Saturday morning at his Abuja residence at the age of 78.
In a statement issued by his special adviser on information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described Ogbeh as a man of strong convictions whose “insightful perspectives and wealth of experience” would be missed.
Mr Jonathan, in a statement signed by his media adviser Ikechukwu Eze, called Ogbeh a “distinguished public servant and respected elder statesman” whose life was defined by patriotism, humility and commitment to national unity.
He praised Ogbeh’s contributions to agriculture and democratic governance as a legacy that would inspire future generations.
Atiku described Ogbeh as a “quintessential gentleman” and “reliable political ally” whose service to Nigeria would be missed.
Other leaders who paid tribute include former President Olusegun Obasanjo, secretary to the government of the federation George Akume, former Senate presidents Bukola Saraki and David Mark, Gombe State governor Inuwa Yahaya on behalf of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, Benue State governor Hyacinth Alia and former Abia State governor Orji Kalu.
Born in Otukpo, Benue State, Ogbeh began his public service career in 1979 as deputy speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly before serving as minister in various capacities, including communications, steel development and agriculture.
He also chaired the PDP from 2001 to 2005.
His funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.
