A former Minister of Education and industrialist, Kenneth Gbagi, has died at the age of 62.

Gbagi, a foremost Criminologist and senior lawyer, served as junior minister during the era of former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan.

He hailed from Oginibo community in Ughievwen Kingdom, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State and was a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) before defecting to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in a failed bid to realise his governorship ambition after the primary election of the party did not favour him. He pursued his defeat in the 2023 election by the incumbent Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, with a 172-page petition from the tribunal in Asaba to the Supreme Court in Abuja, but still lost.

He was reported to have died yesterday, Saturday, May 4, 2024, in unclear circumstances.

His Chief Press Secretary, Comrade Kenneth Orusi, said about his principal’s death: “Yes. It is true. But I can’t immediately tell you this was what caused it.”

A statement by Gbagi’s family also confirmed his death but was silent on the circumstances.

The statement, signed by his eldest son, Chief Emuoboh Gbagi, reads: “It is with profound sadness but gratitude to God that we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, husband, and brother.

“Olorogun Kenneth Omemavwa Gbagi, former Minister of Education, departed this life on the 4th of May 2024 at the age of 62.

“We take comfort in the fond memories of his life, his achievements, and the impact he made on the lives of countless individuals and communities.

“We kindly request your thoughts and prayers for our family during this challenging time of loss.

“May his soul rest in perfect peace.” (Pieced together from various media reports)