Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has paid glowing tribute to the late former Minister of Agriculture, Chief Innocent Audu Ogbeh, describing him as a rare statesman whose principles, intellect, and patriotism left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s political landscape.
In a heartfelt condolence message, Atiku said Ogbeh’s passing was “a rude shock and a huge loss to the nation,” adding that the Idoma-born politician was a quintessential gentleman, an amiable friend, and a trusted political ally.
Reflecting on Ogbeh’s tenure as Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (2001–2005), Atiku praised his impactful leadership, describing him as “a detribalized and development-minded politician who merged intellectualism with pragmatism and stood firmly in defence of liberal democracy.”
Beyond politics, Atiku noted, Ogbeh was a respected family man, a cultural steward of the Idoma community, a gifted polyglot, and an exemplary ambassador for Nigeria on the global stage.
“The type of leader he was is difficult to replace,” Atiku stated, while extending condolences to Ogbeh’s family, the people of Benue State, and all Nigerians.
He prayed for God’s comfort for the bereaved and eternal rest for the late statesman.
