Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, has expressed sadness over the death of a former minister and founding member of the All Progressives Congress, Chief Audu Ogbeh, at the age of 78.
This was contained in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ibrahim Mohammed, and made available to newsmen on Saturday in Katsina.
“In his condolence message, Governor Radda described the late Chief Ogbeh as a man of uncommon intellect and courage, whose decades of public service left a lasting imprint on Nigeria’s political and economic life.
“Chief Ogbeh was more than a politician; he was a patriot. He stood for what he believed was right, even when it meant swimming against the tide. Whether in the National Party of Nigeria of the Second Republic, the People’s Democratic Party, or in the APC, his voice was always guided by reason, experience, and deep love for this country,” the governor said.
The governor recalled Ogbeh’s long and distinguished career, from his early days as Deputy Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly in 1979, to his appointment as Minister of Communications and later Minister of Steel Development, and, decades later, Minister of Agriculture under President Muhammadu Buhari.
“He brought intellect to the table, backed by facts, figures, and a clear vision for Nigeria’s growth. His contributions to agriculture alone touched millions of lives, especially in rural communities,” the governor noted.
He added that Ogbeh’s death is not just a loss to Benue State, but to the entire nation, at a time when Nigeria needs the steady counsel of experienced leaders.
“We have lost one of the finest. His wisdom, candour, and patriotism will be missed.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Katsina State, Governor Radda extended condolences to the Government and people of Benue State, the family of Chief Audu Ogbeh, and all Nigerians who valued his leadership and service”, the statement added.
