Chinedum Elekwachi
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of elder statesman and former Minister of Agriculture, Chief Audu Ogbeh, describing it as monumental loss to the nation.
Speaking during a condolence visit to the late statesman’s residence in Abuja on Saturday, Akume also described the late politician as a distinguished leader, consummate public servant and patriot, who committed his life to his people and the nation in various capacities.
According to SGF, Ogbeh lived a life of total service to Benue State and Nigeria as a whole, saying his vast experience, knowledge, national and international reach would be missed.
He said: “I received with a deep sense of grief and loss, the passing of a statesman, farmer, playwright and politician, Chief Audu Ogbeh.
Service with integrity
According to Akume, Ogbe was a man who served with integrity and a deep commitment to the Nigerian project.
“Audu not only excelled as Minister of Communications in the Second Republic, but was also a voice of reason as a politician and chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from 2001 until January 2005.
The SGF said Ogbe, a distinguished leader, teacher, patriot, left his mark as the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security.
“He was consummate public servant, and quintessential intellectual, who shone more than a million stars in the service of his community, Benue State, and Nigeria as a whole.
“He was indeed a fine gentleman, philanthropist, promoter of peace, justice and equity, and indeed a colossus in all ramifications.
His selfless service, wealth of experience, deep knowledge, and local and international reach will be highly missed.
“Our prayers are with the family and loved ones he left behind and we pray that the almighty God will grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss of this perfect gentleman.”
Audu Ogbe died earlier today at the age of 78. His family announced his peaceful passing.
