Former NADECO Leader Ralph Obioha Dies at 80

Chief Ralph Obioha, a founding member of the National Democratic Coalition, NADECO, has died at the age of 80.

Obioha died on 3rd October 2026, his family announced in a statement signed by his son, Chima Obioha, in Enugu.

The family did not disclose the cause of death.

The late elder statesman, businessman and politician was a prominent figure in Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle during the military era.

Obioha was a key member of NADECO and helped lead the organisation’s activities from Canada and the United States after the annulment of the 12th June 1993, presidential election.

He advocated for the restoration of the mandate believed to have been won by the late Chief Moshood Abiola.

He also served as a member of the House of Representatives during the Second Republic and later founded the Justice Party, which fielded Rev. Chris Okotie as its presidential candidate in the 2003 election.

He also served as chairman of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Caretaker Committee.

In June, President Bola Tinubu named Obioha among Nigerians who were to receive national honours for their roles in the June 12 struggle.

Obioha, however, declined the honour, citing concerns over insecurity and the continued detention of Indigenous People of Biafra leader Nnamdi Kanu.

In January, Obioha told Vanguard that the 1966 coup was not an “Igbo coup,” describing the label as unfair to the Igbo people.

“It was not an Igbo coup,” he said.

In its statement, the family described Obioha as “a patriot, elder statesman, political leader and businessman” who was committed to Nigeria’s progress.

“His was a respected voice in the land, and he was a firm believer in Nigeria’s enormous potential,” the family said.

The family also remembered him as a “beloved father, husband, brother, grandfather and friend” and thanked Nigerians for their condolences.

It requested privacy while the family mourns and said details of his memorial and funeral would be announced later.