Arc. Sonny Echono Honours Chief Audu Ogbeh: A Beloved “Uncle,” Mentor, and Visionary Leader
Arc. Sonny Echono Honours Chief Audu Ogbeh: A Beloved “Uncle,” Mentor, and Visionary Leader
Arc. Sonny S. T. Echono, Executive Secretary, has expressed profound grief and extended heartfelt condolences on the passing and burial of Chief Audu Innocent Ogbeh, OFR. Describing the late Chief Ogbeh as his “Uncle,” boss, mentor, guardian, and leader, Echono lamented the significant void left by his departure, particularly within the Idoma nation.
In a letter released following the burial, Echono lauded Chief Ogbeh as a “paragon of visionary leadership” and an “unwavering advocate for the progress of our beloved nation.”
He highlighted Chief Ogbeh’s remarkable courage and patriotism throughout his illustrious career, noting his tireless efforts towards the fair, equitable, and balanced development of Nigeria.
Echono stated that Chief Ogbeh’s commitment to excellence and public service not only shaped policies but also served as an inspiration to generations of Nigerian patriots.
The Executive Secretary recalled Chief Ogbeh’s extensive and impactful tenure in various strategic positions. These included his roles as Minister of Communications, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Deputy Speaker of the Benue House of Assembly, and Chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum.
Echono emphasized that each of these roles was characterized by Chief Ogbeh’s “doggedness” and an “exemplary service ethos” aimed at uplifting and unifying communities.
He vividly recalled a conversation with President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, in June 2015, where the President expressed his intent to appoint Chief Ogbeh as minister due to his integrity. “I will give you a man with the integrity of Audu Ogbeh as your minister,” President Buhari had confided. Echono further shared his privilege of formalizing the handover process at the Ministry of Agriculture five months later, where Chief Ogbeh’s visionary approach reportedly transformed sectors and fostered unity and hope.
Read Also: Post-UMTE tests inimical to education growth – Stakeholders
“He will be remembered not just as a leader but as a guiding light for many who aspire to follow his footsteps,” Echono stated.
The Executive Secretary urged the family, particularly Adegbe and the rest of the family, to find solace in Chief Ogbeh’s “incredible legacy” and the “countless lives he touched.” Echono fondly reminisced about his last meeting with Chief Ogbeh at his Abuja residence, just two weeks prior to his demise.
He described the gathering as a blend of serious discussions, laughter, reminiscences, and fatherly advice, highlighting these as “fond memories that will linger.”
Extending his deepest sympathies to all of Chief Ogbeh’s family, friends, and colleagues, Arc. Echono affirmed, “Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.”
He concluded with a message of faith and acceptance, stating, “As people of faith, we accept this latest challenge. We renew our trust in God that He console and comfort us all. May his soul rest in eternal peace. Amen.”
