Audu Innocent Ogbeh: Scholar, Legislator, and Federal Minister

In 1982, Mr. Audu Innocent Ogbeh served as Nigeria’s Federal Minister of Communications, a role he held until 1983. His appointment came at a time when Nigeria’s communications sector was central to national administration and connectivity, and it crowned a steady rise through academia and public service.

Early Life and Education

Audu Innocent Ogbeh was born on 20 July 1947 in Otukpo, Benue State. He received his secondary education at St. Michael’s Aliade, Benue State (1962–1966), before proceeding to King’s College, Lagos, where he completed his Higher School Certificate (1967–1968).
He earned a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, in 1972, and later obtained a Master’s degree (M.Litt) from the University of Toulouse, France.

Academic Career

Ogbeh began his professional life in academia. From 1972 to 1976, he was a lecturer at the Institute of Education, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. In 1977, he was appointed Head of the Department of Humanities at the Murtala College of Arts, Science and Technology, Makurdi, reflecting his growing reputation as an educator and administrator.

Entry into Politics and Legislative Service

In 1979, Ogbeh transitioned into politics and was elected Deputy Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, a position he held until 1982. His performance in the legislature paved the way for his elevation to the federal cabinet.

Federal Minister of Communications (1982–1983)

Ogbeh’s tenure as Minister of Communications placed him at the helm of a strategic sector responsible for postal services and telecommunications during Nigeria’s Second Republic period. Though brief, his service marked a key chapter in his public career.

Later National Roles

Beyond the 1980s, Audu Ogbeh remained a prominent national figure. He served as Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from 2001 to January 2005, overseeing the party during a critical phase of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic. He later returned to the federal cabinet as Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (2015–2019), where he focused on agricultural reform and rural development.

Personal Life

Mr. Audu Innocent Ogbeh is married and has four children.

A photograph from 1982 captures him during his time as Federal Minister of Communications, symbolising a career that bridged education, legislation, party leadership, and federal governance.

Source:

Ayatutu Media