Atiku, Obi Mourn Ogbeh as Reliable Ally, Detribalized Leader
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, on Saturday lamented the passing of former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh.
In separate statements shared on X, the opposition leaders eulogized Ogbeh as a steadfast ally and a leader transcending tribal boundaries, whose untimely demise was deeply shocking.
Atiku remarked, “The unexpected departure of Chief Innocent Audu Ogbeh is profoundly shocking.
“Audu was a patriot, a principled politician, an epitome of gentlemanliness, and a dependable ally.
“His stewardship of the PDP from 2001 to 2005 was significant, and his contributions to nation-building were vast.
“A leader beyond tribal confines, he melded intellect with pragmatism and remained an unwavering advocate of democracy.
“I extend my condolences to his family, friends, the people of Benue State, and all Nigerians. May the Almighty grant him eternal repose.”
Obi noted that the late Ogbeh embodied humility and integrity, traits that garnered him respect across political lines.
The former Anambra governor revealed that Ogbeh was a statesman with whom he shared a close camaraderie.
Obi stated, “He was among those rare politicians with whom I could engage in genuine and insightful discourse about our beloved nation, particularly on agriculture, a sector he was fervently passionate about.
“During his tenure as Minister of Agriculture, and in his strategic planning for the North, he exhibited vision, wisdom, and an unyielding commitment to seeing Nigeria achieve self-sufficiency and prosper through sustainable agricultural development.
“Chief Ogbeh carried himself with humility and integrity, qualities that earned him respect across political divides.”
Obi expressed that the former minister’s passing was not only a personal loss but also a profound loss to Nigeria.
“May God Almighty, who has called him home, grant him eternal rest in His kingdom and bestow upon his family and all of us the strength to endure this irreparable loss,” he added.
