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PDP Declares 3-Day Mourning for Dan Orbih As Wike, Okpebholo, Obaseki, AAU Pay Tributes

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has declared a three-day period of mourning in honour of its National Vice Chairman, South-South, Chief Dan Osi Orbih, who died in London on Monday at the age of 64.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, the party described Orbih as a loyal, committed and dependable leader whose contributions to democracy and the growth of the PDP will be fondly remembered. As a mark of respect, the National Working Committee directed all PDP offices nationwide to fly the party’s flag at half-mast for three days.

Tributes have continued to pour in from across Edo State and beyond. FCT Minister Nyesom Wike described his death as a devastating personal loss and “the fall of one of the biggest trees in the political forest of Edo State,” saying he had lost a friend and committed political ally.

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo described Orbih as a bridge-builder and voice of reason, noting his role as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma. Former Governor Godwin Obaseki said he was a prominent Edo son who earned a place in the state’s political history through his years as Edo PDP Chairman and National Vice Chairman.

The Edo chapters of both the PDP and APC also mourned him. The PDP described him as a “political colossus” while the APC said his leadership transcended partisan lines.

AAU, in a statement on behalf of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Eunice Omonzejie, said Orbih brought experience, courage and wisdom to the Governing Council and that his contributions to repositioning the university will remain indelible.

Orbih, born October 27, 1961 in Ogbona, Etsako Central LGA, rose to become one of the most influential PDP figures in Edo and the South-South. He served as Edo PDP Chairman, leader of the Legacy Group, and was a close ally of the late Chief Tony Anenih and later of Nyesom Wike. He was appointed Chairman of AAU Governing Council by the Okpebholo administration after backing him in the 2024 governorship election despite remaining in the PDP.

He is survived by his wife, Florence, daughters Winifred Anwosiobor and Mildred Omonemi, siblings and extended family. Burial arrangements will be announced by the family.

Source: The Sun Nigeria