Echono Heartfelt Tribute: Nigeria Mourns Loss of Former Minister and Political Stalwart, Chief Audu Ogbeh
Echono Heartfelt Tribute: Nigeria Mourns Loss of Former Minister and Political Stalwart, Chief Audu Ogbeh
…I am profoundly saddened by the sudden passing of my ”Uncle”, boss,mentor, guardian and leader, Chief Audu Innocent Ogbeh. His departure leaves a void that will be deeply felt by many, particularly, the Idoma nation, as he was a paragon of visionary leadership and an unwavering advocate for the progress of our beloved nation. Echono
By Hannatu Lot
ABUJA, NIGERIA – The nation is in mourning following the sudden passing of Chief Audu Innocent Ogbeh, OFR, a distinguished statesman whose extensive career touched various critical sectors of Nigerian public life.
His departure has been met with profound sadness, with many remembering him as a “visionary leader” and a “guardian” of the Idoma nation and Nigeria as a whole.
The Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education and Trust Fund (TETFund), Arc. Sonny S. T. Echono, OFR, himself a close associate and mentee, expressed deep sorrow, describing Chief Ogbeh as a “father, boss, mentor, guardian and leader.”
“His departure leaves a void that will be deeply felt by many, particularly, the Idoma nation, as he was a paragon of visionary leadership and an unwavering advocate for the progress of our beloved nation,” Arc. Echono stated in a heartfelt tribute.
Throughout his illustrious career, Chief Ogbeh was recognized for his “remarkable courage and patriotism,” tirelessly working towards the “fair, equitable and balanced development of Nigeria.” His dedication to public service and commitment to excellence are credited with shaping policies and inspiring a generation of Nigerians.
Chief Ogbeh’s significant contributions were felt across a spectrum of strategic national positions. He served as the Minister of Communications and later as the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, where his tenure was marked by a “visionary approach to leadership” that aimed to transform sectors and foster unity.
He also held the esteemed role of National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was the Deputy Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, and served as Chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum. Each of these roles, according to Echono, was undertaken with “doggedness and an exemplary service ethos that sought to uplift and unify our Communities.”
The impact of Chief Ogbeh’s integrity was underscored by a personal anecdote shared by Arc. Echono. He recalled a conversation in June 2015 with then-President-elect Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, who had expressed his confidence in Chief Ogbeh. “I will give you a man with the integrity of Audu Ogbeh as your minister,” President Buhari had confided, a sentiment that Arc. Echono later experienced firsthand during the handover process of the Ministry of Agriculture.
Chief Ogbeh’s legacy is remembered as one of “integrity, compassion and relentless pursuit of excellence.” He is seen not just as a leader but as a “guiding light” for those aspiring to follow in his footsteps.
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Just weeks before his passing, Arc. Echono shared a fond memory of his last “whole day meeting” with Chief Ogbeh at his Abuja residence. The gathering, interwoven with serious discussions, was also filled with “banters, jokes, reminiscences and the usual fatherly advice,” moments that will remain cherished memories.
The outpouring of condolences extends to Chief Ogbeh’s family, friends, and colleagues. Arc. Echono and many others have offered their deepest sympathies, urging those grieving to find solace in his “incredible legacy and the countless lives he touched.”
As the nation reflects on his contributions, a sense of faith and acceptance of this profound loss prevails. “As people of faith, we accept this latest challenge. We renew our trust in God that He console and comfort us all,” Arc. Echono concluded.
May the soul of Chief Audu Innocent Ogbeh, OFR, rest in eternal peace.
