Former PDP National Chairman, Audu Ogbeh
By THOMAS AKASE, Makurdi –
Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia and Senator David Mark, Interim National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), have expressed profound sorrow over the death of Chief Audu Ogbeh, a former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development and National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who passed away on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at his Abuja residence at the age of 78.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, in Makurdi, Governor Alia described the news of Ogbeh’s passing as deeply regrettable, noting the elder statesman’s impactful life.
“Chief Audu Ogbeh lived a successful and fulfilled life, earning respect and admiration from many. His legacies as a former Deputy Speaker of the Benue House of Assembly and a two-time federal minister will forever be remembered,” Alia said.
He prayed for eternal rest for Ogbeh and strength for his family, the Idoma nation, Benue State, and Nigeria to bear the loss.
Similarly, Senator David Mark, in a statement released by his Media Adviser, Paul Mumeh, in Abuja, mourned Ogbeh as a “dependable brother and friend,” calling his death a significant loss to Nigeria’s political landscape.
“Chief Ogbeh was a forthright leader who championed justice, fairness, and equity. He remained morally upright even in adversity and devoted himself to serving humanity,” Mark stated.
He described Ogbeh as a rare breed of leader who believed in Nigeria’s unity and the rights of all citizens, adding, “His brilliance, integrity, and commitment to the nation will always be remembered.”
Mark urged the people of Benue and Ogbeh’s family to find comfort in his exemplary life.
In a related development, Governor Alia also extended condolences to the Ishoribo family following the death of Ade Ishoribo, the Executive Secretary of the Benue Examinations Board.
Alia praised Ishoribo’s contributions, stating, “He was a gentleman whose work at the board was already yielding results. It’s tragic that his efforts were cut short.”
The governor, who sent a delegation to console Ishoribo’s family, prayed for his soul’s eternal rest and solace for his family, the board’s staff, and the people of Guma Local Government Area.
