Former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh, has passed away at the age of 78.

His family announced the development in a statement on Saturday, confirming that the elder statesman died peacefully earlier in the day.

“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Chief Audu Ogbeh. He passed away on August 9, 2025, at the fulfilled age of 78,” the statement read.

The family described Ogbeh as “a man of integrity, service, and unwavering dedication to the nation and his community,” adding that they are comforted by “the many lives he touched and the exemplary life he led.”

Details of the funeral arrangements will be released in due course. The family also expressed gratitude to friends, colleagues, and well-wishers for their prayers and support, while requesting privacy during the period of mourning.

Ogbeh, a veteran politician and former chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), served as Minister of Agriculture from 2015 to 2019.