Chief Audu Innocent Ogbeh, a distinguished Nigerian politician, farmer, and playwright, has passed away at the age of 78. His family has confirmed that he died peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, August 9, 2025.
A respected statesman, Ogbeh held several prominent roles in Nigeria’s political landscape. He served as the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from 2001 to 2005 and was later appointed Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, a position he held from 2015 to 2019 under President Muhammadu Buhari. Earlier in his career, he was appointed Minister of Communications during the Second Republic.
Ogbeh was also a literary figure, authoring several plays including Epitaph of Simon Kisulu, which was staged at the Muson Centre in 2002. Born on July 28, 1947, in Otukpo, Benue State, he had a background in academia before transitioning into public service and farming. Throughout his life, he was known for his integrity, dedication, and contributions to national development.
The family expressed that they are deeply comforted by the impact he had on many lives and the high standards he exemplified. Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course. At this time, the family has requested privacy as they mourn the loss of their cherished patriarch.
