Audu Ogbeh: David Mark Mourns

…Says he was a dependable brother

By Lateef Ibrahim, Abuja

Interim National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and former President of the Senate, Senator David Mark, was visibly moved to tears on Saturday day over the passing of frontline politician and former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Audu Innocent Ogbeh.

Lamenting the loss, Senator Mark said:

“I have lost a dependable brother and friend.”

Chief Ogbeh was reported to have died peacefully at his Abuja residence on Saturday morning.

Reacting to the sad news, Senator Mark described his demise as a huge blow to “our national political firmament,” noting that Ogbeh was a forthright leader who upheld the sanctity of truth and devoted himself to the service of humanity.

He recalled that the late elder statesman was among the rare breed of political leaders who genuinely believed in the unity of Nigeria, where no citizen should be oppressed or denied the opportunity to fulfil their dreams.

“Ogbeh preached justice, fairness, and equity. He was morally upright even in the face of adversity,” Mark said.

According to him, the nation has lost one of her finest and most fertile minds — a man who gave his all in service to both our country and humanity.

 “Ogbeh will be remembered for his brilliance, forthrightness, and unwavering integrity,” Mark added.

He urged the government and people of Benue State, as well as his immediate family, to take solace in the fact that their patriarch lived an exemplary life worthy of emulation.

Ogbeh was a Minister and of Communications in ill-fated 2nd Republic under late President Shehu Shagari . He was Minister of Agriculture under president Muhammadu Buhari.