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From Godwin Tsa, Abuja
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has expressed sadness over the demise of veteran journalist and co-founder of Newswatch magazine, Mr Dan Agbese, describing it as a colossal loss to the nation.
Family sources confirmed that the renowned columnist and editor passed away on Monday morning, 17 November, in Lagos. He was aged 81.
In a statement on Tuesday, Akume stated that the late journalist had left the stage at a critical time, noting that his fatherly role and vast experience would be missed.
Senator Akume said that, as a member of the pioneer trailblazers in the media industry who stood firm in defiance of the iron-fist grip of military rule, championing the pathway for the restoration of democracy, his passing had created a huge vacuum that would be difficult to fill.
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The statement, signed by his Special Adviser on Public Affairs, Terrence Kuanum, said, “His death is a monumental national loss. Dan Agbese was a fine gentleman to the core. He was a man of strong conviction with unimpeachable character and unwavering determination to achieve great goals against all odds. His penchant for justice, equity, and fairness set him apart from the rest.”
The SGF added that the late Agbese’s sharp prose and decades-long contribution to journalism, which culminated in shaping modern investigative reporting and commentary on the socio-political landscape of Nigeria, would be greatly missed by all.
“The late Dan Agbese was a doyen of journalism and merchant of biting satire. He was such a versatile, bold, and confident writer whose quill dripped brutal frankness. A mentor and father who professionally refined his mentees and turned them into masters of the pen craft,” he added.
Senator George Akume admonished the Agbese family, his friends, and colleagues in the media industry to take solace in the exemplary and impactful lifestyle that he lived and to pray to God for the repose of his soul.
