Chief Dan Osi Orbih, a prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain and former National Vice-Chairman of the Party for the South-South zone, has died at the age of 64.
Orbih died on Monday, August 31, 2026, according to a statement issued by his family and signed by Francis Udukhomoi Orbih on Tuesday. The announcement brings to an end the life of one of the most recognisable political figures in Edo State, where he played a major role in the PDP for several years.
The family announced his death with deep sorrow, describing the late politician as a beloved brother, husband, father and uncle.
According to the statement, Orbih’s death was announced “with profound sadness and a heavy heart” and in total submission to the will of God.
The family disclosed that the deceased is survived by his wife, Florence Orbih, and his children, Winifred Anwosiobor Orbih and Mildred Omonemi Orbih. His brothers, sisters and other members of the extended family also survive him.
The family appealed to relatives, friends, political associates and other well-wishers to remember them in their prayers as they come to terms with the loss.
It also said details concerning his burial and other funeral arrangements would be made public at the appropriate time.
Dan Orbih’s Political Career
Orbih was one of the influential figures who shaped the political structure of the PDP in Edo State over many years.
He served as Chairman of the Edo State chapter of the PDP from 2008 to 2019, a period during which he became a major figure in the Party’s political activities and electoral campaigns in the State. He subsequently rose to the national leadership of the Party as National Vice-Chairman for the South-South zone.
His years in Edo politics covered significant periods in the State’s political history, including the administrations of former Governor Adams Oshiomhole and the first term of former Governor Godwin Obaseki.
Orbih was regarded as an important strategist and mobiliser within the PDP and remained influential in the Party’s internal affairs.
His political activities also brought him into close association with Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former Governor of Rivers State.
The relationship between Orbih and Wike became particularly prominent during the internal crisis that rocked the PDP, with Orbih belonging to the political camp associated with the FCT Minister.
Wike Mourns Close Ally
Following the announcement of Orbih’s death, Wike expressed sadness over the loss, describing the late politician as a true friend and committed political associate.
In a condolence message issued through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, Wike said Orbih’s death was painful and represented a major loss to the political community in Edo State.
The FCT Minister described the deceased as “a friend indeed” and said he had lost both a friend and a committed political ally.
Wike also described Orbih’s death as the “fall of one of the biggest trees in the political forest of Edo State,” stressing the impact the late politician had on those around him.
The Minister extended his condolences to Orbih’s family, particularly his wife, children, siblings and other relatives.
Wike also remembered Orbih as a great politician and a man of faith, praying that God would grant his family the strength to cope with the loss.
Obaseki Pays Tribute
Former Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, also joined those mourning the death of the PDP chieftain.
Obaseki described Orbih’s passing as a significant loss to Edo State and Nigeria, recalling his contribution to the political development of the State and the PDP.
According to the former Governor, Orbih’s long involvement in public affairs earned him a place in Edo State’s political history.
Obaseki noted that the late politician provided leadership to the PDP in Edo State as its Chairman before later serving as the Party’s National Vice-Chairman for the South-South zone.
He expressed condolences to Orbih’s wife, children, relatives, political associates, colleagues and numerous well-wishers.
Obaseki also prayed for strength and comfort for the family while asking God to grant the deceased eternal rest.
Role Beyond Party Politics
Orbih’s influence was not limited to partisan politics.
At the time of his death, he was serving as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, in Edo State.
The university confirmed his death and described him as a distinguished statesman, political leader and administrator whose passing had created a significant void within the institution, Edo State and Nigeria.
The university said Orbih brought considerable experience and leadership to the Governing Council and demonstrated a strong commitment to the advancement of the institution.
As Chairman of the Governing Council, Orbih was involved in the university’s leadership and development efforts. In March 2026, he chaired a foundation-laying ceremony for major infrastructure projects at the institution, including lecture theatres and hostel facilities.
His death therefore represents a loss not only to his political associates and the PDP but also to the educational institution where he served in a leadership capacity.
A Significant Loss to Edo Politics
Orbih’s death is expected to generate further reactions from political leaders, party members and associates across Edo State and the wider South-South region.
For decades, he remained a familiar name in Edo politics, particularly because of his long tenure as PDP State Chairman and subsequent elevation to the Party’s national leadership.
His political career also placed him at the centre of several major developments within the opposition Party.
Despite political differences and changes in party alliances over the years, Orbih maintained a strong presence in Edo’s political landscape.
His death at 64 marks the passing of a politician whose career spanned several stages of Nigeria’s democratic experience.
The family has appealed for prayers and support as it mourns the loss. It said further information regarding the funeral arrangements would be released in due course.
As tributes continue to emerge, Dan Orbih is being remembered by political associates, former government officials and institutions where he served as an influential political figure, administrator and community leader.