The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, has felicitated with his colleague and friend, Senator Tunde Ogbeha, on the occasion of his 78th birthday, describing him as a reliable and dependable ally.

In a statement issued by his media Aide, Paul Mumeh, the former President of the Senate congratulated Ogbeha for his steadfastness, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the ideals of nationhood.

Mark described Ogbeha as “a rare gem, a political leader of towering influence, and a statesman of enduring legacy.”
He highlighted that, “Seventy-eight years is not merely a count of days and seasons, but a testimony to God’s faithfulness, a journey of sacrifice, and a chronicle of service to humanity and fatherland.

“Our celebrant has, over the decades, exemplified what it means to lead with courage, wisdom, and vision.
“Through the shifting tides of politics and governance, he has remained steadfast—guided by principle, inspired by patriotism, and committed to the ideals of justice, equity, and progress.

“Ogbeha’s name resonates not only in the corridors of power but also in the hearts of ordinary people whose lives he has touched through policies, programmes, and personal acts of kindness.”

The ADC national chairman commended Ogbeha for raising a generation of leaders, a bridge-builder and hardworking Nigerian who toiled tirelessly to unite communities.

“As a statesman, he has demonstrated that true leadership is measured not by titles held but by legacies built.
“On this landmark occasion, I salute his resilience, wisdom, and devotion to national service. May the years ahead be filled with renewed strength, divine health, and the continued fulfilment of purpose.

“Mark further extolled Ogbeha as dependable, reliable, and a shining example of integrity, patriotism, and excellence.”

The statement quoted Senator Mark as saying that his friendship with Senator Ogbeha dates back to the early 1960s, when they were members of Regular Course 3 at the Nigeria Military School (NMS) in Zaria and later at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in Kaduna.

Both men served as military governors under the administration of General Ibrahim Babangida—Ogbeha as governor of Akwa Ibom and the defunct Bendel states, while Mark governed the old Niger State.

At the return of democracy in 1999, the bond continued as the two were elected Senators of the Federal Republic—Ogbeha representing Kogi West, and Mark representing Benue South.”