This evening, I joined other leaders at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja, for the Night of Tributes and Service of Songs in honour of the late Chief Audu Ogbeh.
His passing is a personal loss, as I worked very closely with him in government, especially in the formation of the Peoples Democratic Party ahead of Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999. I have always valued brilliant minds, and Audu was certainly one of them.
He was a remarkable patriot. Seeing a fellow comrade in the struggle for a better Nigeria finally depart was deeply nostalgic. We shared much in common, including joining the fight for democracy in our 30s.
Though he has answered the inevitable call, his legacy remains evergreen. His footprints in party politics, good governance, and public service are invaluable.
It is worth noting that the idea of recruiting young leaders into governance, now popularised as “Not Too Young to Run,” began with leaders like Audu elected to the Benue State House of Assembly in 1979 at just 32. As one of Nigeria’s youngest ministers, he left indelible marks in the communications and steel sectors and later as Minister of Agriculture.
Audu played his part well and has gone home to rest. My thoughts and prayers are with Mrs. Ogbeh and the entire family. -AA
