Former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh, has passed away at the age of 78.
His family announced in a statement on Saturday that he died peacefully on August 9, 2025.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather; Chief Audu Ogbeh. He passed away on the 9th of August 2025 at the fulfilled age of 78,” the family’s statement read. They described him as a man who lived with “integrity, service, and dedication to our nation and community,” and said they were comforted by the lives he impacted and the example he set.
The family added that details of his funeral would be shared later, while thanking friends, colleagues, and well-wishers for their prayers and support. They also requested privacy during the mourning period.
Born in Otukpo, Benue State, Ogbeh studied at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and later at the University of Toulouse in France. He began his academic career at Murtala College of Arts, Science and Technology, rising to head the Language, Arts, and Social Sciences Department in 1977.
He entered politics in 1979 when he was elected to the Benue State House of Assembly, serving as Deputy Speaker. He later became Minister of Communications (1982–1983) and Minister of Steel Development before the December 1983 coup ended the Second Republic.
Outside politics, Ogbeh was deeply involved in agriculture, establishing rice mills, cashew plantations, community agricultural projects, and consultancy services. He returned to national service as a member of the National Constitutional Conference Commission in 1993 and the National Reconciliation Committee in 1995.
A founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), he served as National Chairman from 2001 to 2005. His principled opposition to then-President Olusegun Obasanjo’s third-term bid led to his resignation. In 2015, he was appointed Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development under President Muhammadu Buhari, serving until 2019.
Beyond politics and farming, Ogbeh was also a playwright, with works including Epitaph of Simon Kisulu, performed at the Muson Centre in 2002.
What You Should Know
Chief Audu Ogbeh, a respected statesman, politician, farmer, and playwright, has died at 78.
His career spanned academia, agriculture, and high-profile political roles, including serving as PDP National Chairman and Minister of Agriculture.
He is remembered for his integrity, service, and outspoken stance on national issues.
