President Bola Tinubu has described the late Chief Audu Ogbeh as a rare statesman who dedicated his life to national service, unity, and democracy.
The President, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, spoke at Ogbeh’s burial on Friday in Otukpa, Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue State.
Ogbeh, a former Minister of Agriculture, was laid to rest at his country home in Efugo, Otukpa. His casket was lowered into the grave at 1:18 p.m. in the presence of family members, political leaders, and well-wishers.
Tinubu, in a tribute titled “Contributions of Chief Audu Ogbeh to the Political Development of Nigeria”, praised the late politician’s humility, generosity, and leadership, noting that he was a bridge-builder who united people across divides.
“Chief Ogbeh’s impact on Nigerian politics and society will be remembered for generations to come. He was a peace-loving leader who worked with integrity and dedication to the progress of the nation,” Tinubu stated.
He recalled that Ogbeh was a founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where he served as National Chairman from 2001 to 2005, and also played a role in the formation of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), which later merged into the All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to Tinubu, Ogbeh’s contributions to democracy, his intellectual depth, and his service-oriented leadership made him stand out in Nigeria’s political history.
Among the dignitaries at the funeral were Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev; Benue State Deputy Governor, Sam Ode; former Anambra State Governor, Chris Ngige; and other prominent leaders.
The President urged the Ogbeh family and Nigerians to uphold the values of humility, service, and integrity that defined the late statesman’s life, stressing that his legacy would inspire future generations.
