Chief Daniel Osi Orbih, a prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain and influential political figure in Edo State, has died at the age of 64.
Orbih died on Monday, August 31, 2026, according to a statement released by his family on Tuesday.
The announcement was contained in a statement signed by Francis Udukhomoi Orbih, Esq., on behalf of the family of Chief M.C.K. Orbih.
The family expressed deep sorrow over the death, describing Orbih as a beloved brother, husband, father and uncle, while asking relatives, friends and well-wishers to remember the family in their prayers.
The family did not disclose the cause or place of his death.
Orbih was born on October 27, 1961, in Ogbona, Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State. He became one of the most recognisable political figures within the PDP in Edo, particularly during his years as the party’s state chairman.
He served as Chairman of the Edo State chapter of the PDP from 2008 to 2019, a period during which he played a major role in the party’s political activities and electoral campaigns in the state.
He subsequently rose to the national leadership of the party, serving as the PDP National Vice-Chairman for the South-South zone.
Beyond party politics, Orbih was also involved in education administration. In 2024, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo announced his appointment as Chairman of the Governing Council of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma.
Orbih was also known for his close political relationship with Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former governor of Rivers State.
Reacting to the death, Wike described Orbih as a friend and committed political ally, paying tribute to his influence in Edo State politics.
Wike said Orbih was “one of the biggest trees in the political forest of Edo State,” reflecting the prominent position he occupied in the state’s political landscape.
Former Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki also expressed his condolences, acknowledging Orbih’s contributions to the PDP during his years as state chairman and later as the party’s South-South vice-chairman.
Orbih’s political career spanned several years of major political developments in Edo State and the wider South-South region. His influence within the PDP made him a familiar figure in discussions about the party’s organisation, leadership and electoral strategy.
His death comes as political stakeholders in Edo and across the South-South continue to pay tribute to a figure who spent much of his public life working within the PDP’s political structure.
Orbih is survived by his wife, Mrs Florence Orbih; his daughters, Ms Winifred Anwosiobor Orbih and Dr Mildred Omonemi Orbih; as well as his brothers, sisters and other relatives.
The family has yet to announce funeral arrangements, saying details of the burial will be made public in due course.
As tributes continue to emerge, political associates, party members and friends are remembering Orbih for his years of service to the PDP and his lasting role in Edo State politics.
