The Benue State Government has announced the death of the state’s Head of Service, Dr Agbogbo Ode, who reportedly passed away in the early hours of Saturday at a public hospital in Makurdi after a brief illness.
Dr Ode, who was appointed Head of Service by Governor Hyacinth Alia on May 31, 2023, was said to have served diligently in the role until his sudden death.
The development was officially confirmed in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Deborah Aber, on behalf of the state government.
“It is with deep sadness and regret that the Benue State Government announces the death of Dr Agbogbo Ode, the Head of Service of Benue State. His sudden demise took place on Saturday, May 2, 2026, after a brief illness,” the statement read.
The government described the late public servant as a highly accomplished technocrat whose contributions to the state’s civil service would be remembered for years.
“Dr Agbogbo Ode was an impeccable technocrat and a highly respected authority in public service, and his passing represents a huge loss to the entire state,” the statement added.
The statement further praised his professionalism and commitment to duty, noting that his leadership played a significant role in strengthening the state’s public service structure.
“His credible and dependable authority in matters of public service, as well as his hard work, brilliance and immense contributions to the state civil service, will forever be missed.”
The Benue State Government also extended its condolences to the deceased’s family, friends, associates, and the entire civil service community in the state.
The passing of Dr Ode comes as a major loss to the administration and the state’s public service system, where he was regarded as a respected figure known for discipline, administrative expertise, and dedication to service delivery.
His death has since drawn tributes from colleagues and stakeholders within the state, many of whom have described him as a committed leader whose impact on Benue’s civil service reforms will not be forgotten.
What you should know
Dr Agbogbo Ode served as Benue State Head of Service from May 2023 until his death on May 2, 2026.
His appointment by Governor Hyacinth Alia placed him at the centre of administrative coordination within the state’s civil service. Widely regarded as an experienced technocrat, he played a key role in implementing public service reforms and strengthening institutional processes.
His death after a brief illness has created a vacuum in Benue’s public administration. Government officials have described him as dependable, brilliant, and highly professional.
His contributions to governance and service delivery are expected to remain part of his lasting legacy in Benue State’s civil service.
