Political Earthquake: Nation Mourns PDP Vice Chairman Dan Orbih's Tragic Passing
The political landscape mourns the passing of Dan Orbih, PDP National Vice-Chairman (South-South) and former Edo State PDP chairman, who died on Monday, August 31, 2026, at 64. Tributes pour in from FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and former Edo Governor Godwin Obaseki, highlighting his significant contributions and impact on Nigerian politics. The PDP also officially expressed its profound sadness over the loss of a key figure.
Dan Orbih, the respected National Vice-Chairman (South-South) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, passed away on Monday, August 31, 2026, at the age of 64. His family confirmed his death on Tuesday in Benin through a statement issued by Francis Orbih, expressing "profound sadness and a heavy heart" at the loss of a beloved brother, husband, father, and uncle.
Born on October 27, 1961, in Ogbona, Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State, Orbih had a distinguished career in public affairs. He served as the chairman of the Governing Council of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, and was a long-serving member of the PDP. Prior to his role as national vice-chairman, he notably served as the PDP chairman in Edo State, making significant contributions to the party in various capacities throughout his tenure.
The late politician is survived by his wife, Florence Orbih, his children Winifred and Mildred Orbih, as well as his brothers, sisters, and other members of his extended family. The family has requested prayers during this difficult mourning period and announced that further details regarding his funeral arrangements would be communicated in due course.
News of Orbih’s passing elicited widespread tributes from across the political spectrum. Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and a close political ally, expressed deep shock and sorrow during a monthly media chat in Abuja. Wike stated that he may never recover from the shock of losing a man he described as "trusted" and "firm even when under political pressure."
Similarly, former Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, lamented Orbih's death as a "significant loss to the state and Nigeria." Obaseki acknowledged Orbih's extensive engagement in public affairs, which he said earned him a prominent place in the political history of Edo State, and extended his condolences to Orbih’s family, associates, and colleagues.
The Peoples Democratic Party also officially mourned the loss of its former National Vice Chairman, South-South. In a statement posted on the party’s official page on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, and signed by Ini Ememobong, the National Publicity Secretary of the Interim National Working Committee, the PDP conveyed its sorrow. The party’s Interim National Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, highlighted Orbih's invaluable contributions while holding different positions within the party, reiterating that "We deeply mourn his death." The PDP prayed for God to grant Orbih eternal rest and provide strength to his family, friends, and associates to bear the profound loss.