According to a statement released by the Ogbeh family, we regret to inform you of the passing of Chief Audu Ogbeh, our beloved husband, father, and grandfather. Chief Audu Ogbeh, the former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, went away, leaving many dreams unfulfilled. In addition, the former national chairman of the People's Democratic Party was passionate about effective governance and national food security. The older statesman passed away quietly on Saturday.
According to the announcement, "He died on August 9, 2025, at the age of 78."
Ogbeh "departed peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, service, and dedication to our nation and community," according to the family.
The statement further said, "We find solace in the numerous lives he impacted and the example he set."
It thanked friends, coworkers, and well-wishers for their thoughts and support, and stated that specifics of the funeral plans will be shared when the time comes.
The statement ended, saying, "We will appreciate some privacy at this time while we mourn the loss of our patriarch."
From 2015 to 2019, Audu Innocent Ogbeh, a Nigerian politician, writer, and farmer, held the position of Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development.
From 2001 until January 2005, he presided over the People's Democratic Party (PDP). From 1982 to 1983, he was the Second Republic of Nigeria's Minister of Communications.
He had written five plays, three of which were published, and was well-known for his literary creations. In 2002, the Muson Centre hosted a production of one of his pieces, "Epitaph of Simon Kisulu."
On July 28, 1947, Ogbeh was born in what is now Benue State. His ancestry was Idoma. From 1967 to 1969, he was a student at King's College in Lagos.
From 1969 to 1972, he attended Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, and from 1973 to 1974, he attended the University of Toulouse in France.
From 1972 to 1976, he taught at Ahmadu Bello University's Institute of Education in Zaria. From 1977 to 1979, he oversaw the humanities department at Murtala College of Arts, Science, and Technology.