Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has expressed condolences to the Orbih family on the death of their son, Daniel Orbih, who was the Chairman of the Governing Council of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma.
In a statement on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele, the governor described Orbih as a bridge-builder and a voice of reason.
Reflecting on his dedication to institutional leadership and educational excellence, the governor described Orbih’s death as a significant loss to his family, Edo State and the university community.
The governor described Chief Orbih as an astute political leader, adding that in his service as Chairman of the AAU Governing Council, Orbih demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing the university’s developmental agenda and played an instrumental role in strengthening ties between the state government and the institution.
Governor Okpebholo prayed that the Almighty would grant the family, friends and colleagues the fortitude to bear the loss, and that Chief Orbih’s legacy of service would continue to inspire generations of students and educators in Edo State.
Also, the management of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, said Orbih’s death had created a painful void not only in AAU but also in Edo State and Nigeria at large.
In a statement by the Principal Assistant Registrar/Head, Information, Protocol and Public Relations, Otunba Mike Aladenika, the university expressed deep shock over Orbih’s death.
The statement added, “As Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Chief Orbih demonstrated a deep commitment to the welfare of the University and its community. He was passionate about the restoration of the University’s dignity and reputation and consistently advocated initiatives that would promote academic excellence, good governance, institutional stability and sustainable development.
“At this difficult moment, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mrs. Eunice Omonzejie, on behalf of the Governing Council, Management, staff and students of Ambrose Alli University, extends heartfelt condolences to the wife, children, siblings and the entire Orbih family.”
The Edo PDP said the deceased was a prominent statesman whose contributions to Edo State and Nigeria’s political development and democratic governance remained deeply significant.
In a statement by the state Chairman, Nosa Ogieva-Okunbor, and Secretary, Hilary Otsu, the party said Orbih’s passing marked the loss of a respected figure whose influence extended across communities, institutions and generations.
“Throughout his decades of service, Chief Orbih was recognized for his steadfast commitment to public leadership, party unity, and the advancement of democratic ideals within Edo State, the South-South geopolitical zone and across Nigeria. His passing marks the loss of a respected figure whose influence extended across communities, institutions and generations.”
Also, former Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, described Orbih as a prominent figure in Nigerian politics and an influential voice in Edo State.
He noted that for many years, Orbih provided leadership to the Peoples Democratic Party in Edo State as its state chairman and subsequently served as the PDP National Vice Chairman, South-South, adding that through these roles, he contributed significantly to the development of the party in Edo State and Nigeria.
He stated that Chief Orbih’s long years of engagement in public affairs earned him a place in the political history of Edo State, and his passing represented a significant loss to the state and the nation.
The Orbih family on Monday announced the death of Chief Daniel Osi Orbih.
In a statement by the deceased’s younger brother, Francis, Orbih passed away on Monday, August 31, 2026.
