Barr. Olorogun Kenneth Omemavwa Gbagi, former Minister of Education in Nigeria, is dead.

Gbagi, an industrialist, politician and an international entrepreneur, passed away at the age of 62 on Saturday 4 May, 2024.

Olorogun was in London, United Kingdom for few weeks in April planning and restrategising his many schedules. He had just returned to Nigeria to launch and repackaged some of his initiatives which includes his foundation.

A statement signed by his eldest son, Chief Emuoboh Gbagi, on behalf of the Gbagi family, 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 of Education, who 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”, the statement added

Barr. Gbagi had felt ill just on Wednesday and was rushed to hospital. By Saturday, he was pronounced dead.

Speaking on, the Presidential Candidate of SDP, Barr. Adewole penned this… Adieu Kenneth! Chief Kenneth Gbagi OON, a Nigerian who loved his country and the people in it. The ultimate brother and consummate friend of Nigerians from all walks of life and every cardinal point in our geography. He gave his all to his country and gave more than he had for his friends; and made friends with as many as could justly be aligned with. a man of courage and energy, who knew how to create and build, whose mind was an open book and his heart too large to exclude anyone. He lived with the wisdom of the aged and the excitement of a child and complete trust that everyone would treat him with as much love as he treated them, never failing, never falling even when the road was rougher and unrewarding; with no distinction between what battles were his or those of his friends. Chief Kenneth Gbagi was always ahead of the owner of the fight once justice was at stake. A complete believer in Nigeria and Nigerians, Gbagi was ubiquitous and universal in the weaving of the fabrics of unity and solidarity across every square mile of Nigeria. There is no place or space where Kenneth Gbagi could not open doors on account of some good deeds already preceding him! You will live as long as Nigeria lives. We will carry your flag on and Nigeria shall endure so that your dream of an equal and just land of closely knit brothers and sisters living on the abundance of our inheritance and productive civilization shall come to pass. Thank you very much Kenneth Gbagi, the Total Nigerian.

Gbagi was a top contender for the governorship seat in Delta state on the platform of the Social Democratic Party, SDP, at the last governorship election.

He was also a major investor in the business climate in the state. He was the owner of a four-star hotel and two major shopping malls in the twin cities of Warri and Effurun local government areas.

Also Chief James Ibori, former governor of Delta State wrote on his Facebook wall.

“Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi. Abovwolovwolo. Atighoyowa. So long, May your soul rest in peace.”