Former Minister, Kenneth Gbagi, Dies At 62

Kenneth Gbagi, a former state minister for education, passed away.

His eldest son, Emuoboh Gbagi, confirmed his death in a statement released by his family.

The statement reads in part: “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.”

The late Gbagi attended Bishop Johnson Memory Primary School in Sapele. He was born in Delta State, south-south Nigeria, in September 1961.

He departed for Mile 12 in Lagos, Kosofe Secondary School, at the age of 14. Prior to going overseas to continue his studies, he worked for the Foreign Service after completing his secondary education.

He filmed The Birth of Hong Kong, a film, in 1993 while he was in Hong Kong. He continued his schooling using the money he made from the film.

He attended Sans Thomas University to study political science before attending the Philippine College of Criminology to study criminology.

Following his education, Gbagi worked at the Nigeria Police College in Ikeja for the duration of his one-year National Youth Service Corp. assignment, which was required of him.

He spent his year of duty as a criminology teacher. Later on, he continued on to study law at the University of Lagos.

Gbagi won the SDP’s governorship ticket in Delta State’s most recent election.

But Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of the Peoples Democratic Party, or PDP, defeated him.

He had previously worked for former President Goodluck Jonathan as the Minister of State for Education.

May his soul rest in peace. Amen.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli