By Emmanuel Oloniruha
Abuja, Aug. 9, 2025 (NAN) A former National Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Audu Ogbeh, is dead.
A statement issued by the Ogbeh family said that the elder statesman who was also a former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, died on Saturday at the age of 78.
The family described the deceased as a patriarch who left a legacy of integrity, service and dedication to the country and community.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather, Chief Audu Ogbeh. He passed away on Aug. 9 at the fulfilled age of 78.
“He departed peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, service and dedication to our nation and community. We are comforted by the many lives he touched and the example he set,” the family said.
The family also thanked friends, colleagues and well-wishers for their prayers and support, stating that they would appreciate some privacy at this time, while they mourn the loss of their patriarch.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Ogbeh, a renowned farmer, playwright and politician, served as Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development from 2015 to 2019 under late President Muhammad Buhari.
Ogbeh, who hailed from Efugo-Otukpa in Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue, was also appointed Minister of Communications during the administration of the late President Shehu Shagari at the age of 32, making him the youngest federal cabinet member at that time.
He had previously served as deputy speaker of Benue House of Assembly after joining politics in 1979.
Details of the funeral arrangements, according to the Ogbeh family, will be communicated in due course. (NAN)(www.nannnews.ng)