Former Delta State Governor, Chief James Onanefe Ibori, has described the late Audu Ogbeh as one of the most effective national chairmen in the history of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Ogbeh, a former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, passed away on Saturday at the age of 78.
In a personal tribute, Ibori praised the late Ogbeh as a humble and unassuming gentleman who valued integrity above money or personal gain.
Reflecting on their political history, Ibori recalled that during his bid for re-election as governor in 2003, Ogbeh was given direct instructions to block his candidacy. However, Ogbeh, being a man of principle, refused to comply with what he termed “devilish machinations.” Ibori went on to contest and win the election, completing his second term in 2007.
Ibori’s Statement reads “I received with great sadness the news of the death of Chief Audu Ogbeh, former National Chairman of the PDP and ex-Minister of Agriculture. He was one of the most effective chairmen the PDP ever produced. He was not about money or bribes; he upheld internal democracy and was a man of integrity”.
“The late Audu Ogbeh was a very humble and unassuming gentleman. As National Chairman of the PDP, he had express instructions to prevent me from running in 2003, but he was too decent to act on such underhanded schemes”.
“On behalf of myself, my wife, and my entire family, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his wife, children, and the good people of Benue State. May his gentle soul rest in peace”.
