Former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development and elder statesman, Chief Audu Ogbeh, has died at the age of 78.

According to a statement released by his family, Ogbeh died peacefully in Abuja on Saturday, August 9, following what relatives described as a quiet and reflective final chapter of a long public life.

A key figure in Nigeria’s political history, Ogbeh held several public offices over a career that spanned more than 40 years. He was best known in recent times for serving as Minister of Agriculture from 2015 to 2019 under President Muhammadu Buhari’s first term who passed away on July 13, 2025.

Known for his intellect and dedication to national progress, Ogbeh remained outspoken even in retirement. During an interview in March 2025, he urged President Tinubu to seek peaceful dialogue to resolve the crisis in Rivers State.

“Rivers State is bigger than any individual. Nobody wants to see the Niger Delta descend into crisis,” Ogbeh said. “The region has sustained Nigeria’s economy for decades, and it deserves peace, not conflict.”

Following his passing, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu offered condolences to the government and people of Benue State, describing Ogbeh as “a patriot deeply committed to Nigeria’s progress.”

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo also mourned Ogbeh’s passing, describing him as “a quiet but powerful presence in Nigerian politics,” whose contributions to democracy and good governance left a lasting legacy.

Despite facing criticism during his tenure as agriculture minister particularly regarding food security policies, Ogbeh was widely respected for his principled leadership and firm belief in Nigeria’s potential for self-sufficiency and rural development.

He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren.