Kenneth Gbagi, the former Minister of State for Education and Social Democratic Party (SDP) gubernatorial candidate in the March 2023 elections, has sadly passed away at the age of 62.
The news was announced by his eldest son, Emuoboh Gbagi on Saturday, who expressed both profound sadness and gratitude to God for his life.The statement read:
“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.”
Gbagi, born on September, 1961 in Delta State, Nigeria, began his education at Bishop Johnson Memory Primary School in Sapele before continuing to Kosofe Secondary School in Lagos.
Following his secondary education, he worked into the Foreign Service before pursuing further studies abroad.
Notably, he produced a film titled “The Birth of Hong Kong” in 1993, using the proceeds to fund his education.
Gbagi studied political science at Sans Thomas University and criminology at the Philippine College of Criminology.
Upon returning to Nigeria, he served with the Nigeria Police College Ikeja during his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year and later pursued a law degree at the University of Lagos.
Gbagi was the 2023 SDP gubernatorial candidate in Delta State but ultimately lost to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
He also served as the Minister of State for Education under former President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.
Gbagi’s passing has elicited condolences from various individuals, including Governor Oborevwori, who mourned Gbagi’s death on behalf of the Delta people. According to him, the news of his death was tragic and heart-wrenching.
He prayed for Gbagi’s soul to be accepted by God and prayed for comfort for his family.
