President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed sadness over the death of journalist and publisher of The Eagle Online, Dotun Oladipo, describing his passing as a major loss to Nigeria’s media industry and the nation.
The President’s condolence was contained in a statement released on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Oladipo, who previously served as the Political Editor of PUNCH Newspapers, died on Tuesday at the age of 56.
Tinubu recognised Oladipo’s contributions to political journalism and digital media, highlighting his years of reporting and commitment to providing Nigerians with credible information through both traditional and digital platforms.
The President said the late journalist’s career underscored the role of the media in strengthening democracy by keeping citizens informed, holding public officials accountable and providing avenues for public discourse.
“Dotun Oladipo’s death at the age of 56 is a painful loss to the Nigerian media community and to our nation. He was a committed journalist who devoted significant years of his life to informing the public and contributing to the development of our democracy,” Tinubu said.
He also acknowledged Oladipo’s role in advancing digital journalism through The Eagle Online, which he established after leaving PUNCH Newspapers.
Tinubu also offered his condolences to Oladipo’s family, friends and colleagues, especially members of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers, where the late journalist served as president between 2017 and 2021.
“His contributions to political journalism and the digital media space will not be forgotten. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues in GOCOP and friends. I pray that Almighty God will grant him eternal rest and give his loved ones the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” the President said.