Audu Ogbeh: A Pillar of Integrity and Selfless Service to Nigeria

Strategic Insights -

Audu Ogbeh, Nigeria's former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, passed away on Saturday at the age of 78, leaving behind a legacy of selfless service and integrity. A pillar of honor and a highly principled politician, Ogbeh served in various capacities, including as a minister, lecturer, and chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN). He was also a notable farmer who produced rice free of stones, a testament to his passion for agriculture and his innovative approach to farming.

Key Takeaways:

  • Ogbeh served as Minister of Communication at the age of 35 under President Shehu Shagari's administration.
  • He was among the ministers sent to Kirikiri Prison in 1983 after the military struck but was released early and returned to farming.
  • Ogbeh's friendship with former President Olusegun Obasanjo helped him escape an assassination attempt in 1998.
  • As PDP chairman, Ogbeh defended President Obasanjo against 15 governors who backed Atiku Abubakar for the party's presidential ticket.
  • Ogbeh was nominated as Minister of Agriculture in 2015 by President Muhammadu Buhari at the age of 68, despite criticism over his age.
  • He is credited with making Nigeria Africa's number one rice producer in 2018, overtaking Egypt.
  • Ogbeh's legacy in agriculture has been acknowledged by stakeholders, including AFAN and the Poultry Association of Nigeria.
  • He was described by APC Scribe Daniel Onjeh as "a pillar of integrity and a highly principled politician" who was "a patriot of immeasurable value."
  • Ex-Senate President Ameh Ebute described Ogbeh as "a man of integrity and great achiever" who would not compromise for anything.

Statistics:

  • Ogbeh became Minister at the age of 35.
  • He was detained in Kirikiri Prison in 1983 for a short period.
  • Ogbeh survived an assassination attempt in 1998.
  • Nigeria became Africa's number one rice producer in 2018 under his tenure.
  • Ogbeh's tenure as Minister of Agriculture lasted several years, during which he implemented policies to promote agriculture and rural development.

Sources:

  • Leadership.ng: "Hunger: Nigeria's Most Dangerous Enemy, Says Audu Ogbeh"
  • Leadership.ng: "We Lost Jewel of Inestimable Value - APC Scribe, Daniel Onjeh"
  • News Agency of Nigeria (NAN): various articles and interviews with stakeholders, including AFAN chairman Mr Femi Oke and agriculture expert Mr Akin Alabi
  • The Punch: "Nigeria Has Lost True Patriot - Orji Kalu"
  • The Guardian: "Audu Ogbeh: A Pillar of Integrity and Selfless Service to Nigeria"