Keneth Gbagi, Former Minster Of State Education, Industrialist, Dies With His Governorship Dreams

By Gideon Njoku

A former Minister of State, Education, under the President Goodluck Jonathan Government, Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi is dead. Gbagi, a renowned industrialist, Politician and hotelier, died on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at the age of 62. Gbagi died with his dream of governing Delta State unfulfilled.

Since his tenure as the Minister of State Education, he had tried his luck on elective offices, especially, the office of the Governor of his State, Delta, but his efforts were in vain.

His political journey led him through the Peoples Democratic Party, and the Social Democratic Party. Gbagi was the Governorship  Candidate of the SDP in the 2023 Governorship Election.  He was defeated by the now incumbent Governor of the State, Sheriff  Oborevwori, the immediate past Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly.

A statement released by his eldest son, Emuonoh Gbagi, on behalf of the family, which confirmed his death, reads: “It is with profound sadness but gratitude to God that we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, husband and brother.

“Olorogun (Barr) Kenneth Omemavwa Gbagi, FNIM, OON, former  Minister for Education, departed this life on May 4, 2024, at 62.

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

“We kindly request your thoughts and prayers for our family during this challenging time of our loss. May his soul rest in perfect peace”