The Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Chief Audu Innocent Ogbeh, Nigeria’s former Minister of Agriculture and pioneer National Coordinator of the FRSC Special Marshals.
Mohammed, in a condolences message on Saturday, described his death as a monumental loss to the nation and to the Corps family.
Ogbeh’s family announced his death earlier today, saying he died peacefully.
Ogbeh, the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) between 2001 and 2005, played national politics beyond his state of origin in Benue, North Central Nigeria, where he was deputy speaker of the state’s House of Assembly from 1979 to 1982.
According to the Corps Marshal, Chief Audu Ogbeh was not only a statesman of national repute, but also a visionary who understood that saving lives on our roads required the active involvement of citizens. His pioneering work in mobilising volunteer road safety advocates remains a reference point in the history of the Corps.
The Corps Marshal, who paid glowing tribute to Chief Ogbeh’s enduring legacy of service, leadership, and patriotism, noted that as the first National Coordinator of Special Marshals following the establishment of the FRSC in 1988, Chief Ogbeh laid a solid foundation for volunteerism in road safety advocacy, a foundation upon which the scheme continues to thrive decades later.
He further described Chief Ogbeh as a bridge between governance, civil society, and grassroots engagement, whose contributions to agriculture, national development, and road safety have left indelible marks on the country’s history.
The Corps Marshal, on behalf of the management, officers, Marshals, and the entire Special Marshals family, extended heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Benue State, the Ogbeh family, and all Nigerians who benefited from his wisdom, mentorship, and selfless service.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul and the strength for his family to bear the monumental loss.
