AAU Mourns Ex-PDP Zonal Vice-Chairman Orbih, Says His Legacy, Commitment to Institution Will Inspire Generations

                 Chief Orbih 

Hendrix Oliomogbe 

Authorities of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, Edo State have mourned with profound sadness, the passing of the oro-chancellor and chairman of the Governing Council of the institution, Chief Dan Osi Orbih.

A statement Tuesday in Ekpoma by Otunba Mike Aladenika, the principal assistant registrar/head, information, protocol and oublic relations of the school and made available to journalists in Benin City, he said that the university received with deep shock and a heavy heart the news of the death of the distinguished statesman, political leader and administrator.

The statement which was issued on behalf of the governing council, senate, management, staff and students of the university said that the death of Chief Orbih has created a painful void not only in AAU but also in Edo State and Nigeria at large.

Kulukulu 1 as he was fondly called, a Scion of the popular Orbih Family of the small town of Ogbona, Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State died of cancer in a London, United Kingdom hospital today (August 31, 2026) at 64. He is survived by his wife and two daughters.

Otunba Aladenika remarked that Chief Orbih brought to the leadership of the Governing Council, a wealth of experience, courage, wisdom and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of the institution.

The school's spokesman added that his tenure was marked by a strong desire to reposition the university, restore its lost glory and strengthen its capacity to provide quality education and contribute meaningfully to the development of society.

Continuing, he said that as pro-chancellor Andrew chairman of the Governing Council, the former South South zonal vice chairman of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) demonstrated a deep commitment to the welfare of the school and its community.

Otunba Aladenika further mourned, noting that the top politician 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.

He said that his contributions to the growth and transformation of AAU will remain indelible in the history of the institution.

He eulogized: "Beyond the state owned tertiary institution, Chief Orbih was a respected political leader and 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."

Otunba Aladenika further elogized: "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.

"The university also prays for the peaceful repose of the soul of its pro-chancellor and chairman of the Governing Council, Chief Dan Osi Orbih, and asks God to grant him eternal rest.'

The statement added: "At this difficult moment, the vice-chancellor, Prof. Eunice Omonzejie, on behalf of the Governing Council, management, staff and students of the school, extends heartfelt condolences to the wife, children, siblings and the entire Orbih family.

"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."