Former Agriculture Minister Audu Ogbeh Dies at 78

Chief Audu Ogbeh, Nigeria’s former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, has died at the age of 78.

The family confirmed that Ogbeh passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 9, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of service, integrity, and national commitment.

“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Chief Audu Ogbeh. He passed away quietly and left a legacy of honesty, service, and commitment to our country and society. We are comforted by the many lives he touched and the example he set,” the family said in a statement.

The statement expressed gratitude to friends, colleagues, and well-wishers for their condolences and requested privacy as the family mourns. Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date.

Born July 28, 1947, Ogbeh was a renowned Nigerian farmer, playwright, and politician. He served as Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development from 2015 to 2019 under President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

He also served as National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from 2001 until January 2005 and was Minister of Communications during Nigeria’s Second Republic between 1982 and 1983.

Beyond politics, Ogbeh made a mark in literature, authoring five plays regarded as Nigerian classics.

Ogbeh hailed from Efugo-Otukpa in Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue State, where he was deeply connected to agricultural development and rural advocacy.