Ikpeazu Mourns Dan Orbih, Says Nigeria Has Lost a Courageous Democrat

The Nigerian Ambassador to Spain and former Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, has expressed deep sadness over the death of former National Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), South-South, Chief Dan Osi Orbih.

Orbih, a prominent Edo politician and longtime PDP chieftain, died on August 31, 2026, at the age of 64.

In his condolence message, made available to newsmen today, Ikpeazu described the late politician as a courageous democrat, grassroots mobiliser, political strategist and bridge-builder whose contributions to democratic development extended beyond Edo State and the South-South region.

The former governor said Orbih distinguished himself through his courage, organisational skills and firm understanding of grassroots politics, adding that his influence in Nigeria’s political space would be difficult to replace.

Ikpeazu said, “Chief Dan Orbih was not merely a politician; he was an institution in his own right. His wealth of experience, political courage and understanding of the people will be greatly missed.”

He commiserated with Orbih’s wife, Mrs Florence Orbih, his children, siblings and the entire family, as well as the leadership and members of the PDP, particularly the party’s South-South structure.

The ambassador also acknowledged Orbih’s service as Chairman of the Governing Council of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, noting that his death was a significant loss to the institution and the wider public service community.

Ikpeazu urged the bereaved family to take solace in the late politician’s legacy of service and the positive impact he made on the lives of many people.

He prayed God to grant the family the strength to bear the loss and give the deceased eternal rest.

“Nigeria has lost a courageous political leader and the South-South has lost an important voice. But his legacy of service will endure,” Ikpeazu said.