Edo
By DADA AYOKHAI
Edo people across party divides have expressed condolences to the Orbih family and paid tributes to the late political leader, Chief Dan Osi Orbih, whose death was announced on Monday, August 31, 2026. He was 64.
The passing was announced by the family in a statement signed by Francis Udukhomoi Orbih, Esq.
Born on October 27, 1961, in Ogbona, Etsako Central Local Government Area, Edo State, Chief Orbih served as National Vice-Chairman, South-South, of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. He was also the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Ambrose Alli University, AAU, Ekpoma.
He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Florence Orbih; daughters, Ms. Winifred Anwosiobor Orbih and Dr. Mildred Omonemi Orbih; siblings; and other members of the extended family.
Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo, in a condolence message released by his Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele, described the late Orbih as a bridge-builder and a voice of reason.
“Chief Orbih was an astute political leader. In his service as AAU Governing Council Chairman, he demonstrated unwavering commitment to advancing the university’s developmental agenda and played an instrumental role in strengthening ties between the state government and the institution,” the governor said.
He added that the death was a significant loss to the family, Edo State, and the university community.
The Management of Ambrose Alli University, on behalf of the Governing Council, Senate, staff and students, also mourned the Pro-Chancellor with “profound sadness.”
In a statement signed by Otunba Mike Aladenika, Principal Assistant Registrar/Head, Information, Protocol and Public Relations, the university said it received the news with “deep shock and a heavy heart.”
“Chief Dan Osi Orbih brought to the leadership of the Governing Council a wealth of experience, courage, wisdom and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of Ambrose Alli University. His tenure was marked by a strong desire to reposition the University, restore its lost glory and strengthen its capacity to provide quality education,” the statement read.
The university noted that as Pro-Chancellor, Chief Orbih was passionate about restoring the institution’s dignity and reputation, and consistently advocated initiatives that would promote academic excellence, good governance, institutional stability and sustainable development.
“His contributions to the growth and transformation of Ambrose Alli University will remain indelible in the history of the institution,” it added.
Beyond the university, the statement described Chief Orbih as a respected statesman who devoted several decades to public service. “His influence and contributions to the political and socio-economic development of Edo State and the South-South region earned him recognition across Nigeria.”
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mrs. Eunice Omonzejie, on behalf of the Governing Council, Management, staff and students, extended heartfelt condolences to the wife, children, siblings and the entire Orbih family.
“The University community stands in solidarity with the family in this period of grief and prays that Almighty God will grant them the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” she said.
The university also prayed for the peaceful repose of the soul of its Pro-Chancellor.
Chief Dan Osi Orbih will be deeply missed. His legacy of service, courage and commitment to the advancement of Ambrose Alli University will continue to inspire generations.
