By Nkechi Eze
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 and statesman whose uncommon contributions to Nigeria’s political and economic development left an indelible mark on the nation.
In an official condolence message delivered on his behalf by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, at the funeral service in Benue State, the President praised the late minister’s unwavering dedication to national service and leadership across multiple capacities.
“The President appreciates profoundly the contributions of late Audu Ogbeh to the development of the country in various capacities: as a Minister, Special Adviser, National Chairman of PDP, and as one of those who managed the committee that midwifed the emergence of APC, which has been in power since 2015,” SGF Akume said. He assured the people of Benue that while the nation grieves, they should take solace in the fact that Chief Ogbeh lived a fulfilled life, leaving behind legacies of patriotism and selfless service that are worthy of emulation.
The son of the late minister, Adegbeope Ogbeh, speaking on behalf of the family, expressed deep gratitude to the government, friends, and well-wishers for the overwhelming support extended to them following the passing of their father. He described Chief Ogbeh as a man who “ran a good race and finished his course,” stressing that it is now the family’s desire to uphold and imbibe his sterling legacies.
The funeral service was attended by a host 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, and the Managing Director of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Dr. Akutah Pius Ukeyima. They were joined by members of the National Assembly, senior government officials, and mourners from across the country, who gathered to honour the memory of the respected statesman.
Chief Audu Ogbeh, remembered as a farmer, politician, and nationalist, leaves behind a legacy of integrity, leadership, and tireless commitment to Nigeria’s progress.
