President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed sadness over the sudden death of Mr Dotun Oladipo, former Political Editor of The Punch newspaper and Publisher of The Eagle Online, describing his death as a painful loss to Nigeria’s media industry and the nation at large.
President Tinubu acknowledged the deceased’s contributions to journalism, particularly his years of dedicated service in political reporting and his commitment to providing Nigerians with credible information through both traditional and digital media platforms.
The President said Oladipo’s professional career reflected the important role journalists play in strengthening democracy by informing citizens, holding public officials accountable and providing platforms for robust public discourse.
He recalled the deceased’s passion for his profession and his contributions to the growth of digital journalism through The Eagle Online, which he founded after his remarkable career at Punch Newspaper.
“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.
“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,” President Tinubu said.
Similarly, the International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria and the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) on Wednesday mourned the veteran journalist, describing him as a committed professional who contributed to the growth of Nigeria’s media industry.
In separate statements issued after his death, the two media organisations highlighted his contributions to journalism, press freedom and the development of online publishing in Nigeria.
In a statement signed by its president, Musikilu Mojeed, IPI Nigeria said Oladipo was dependable, resourceful and deeply committed to professional journalism.
“At just 56, Mr Oladipo leaves behind an indelible legacy in Nigeria’s media industry, having made significant contributions across both traditional and digital journalism. His distinguished career included stints with Newswatch, The Punch, The Compass, Nigerian Tribune and The Sun, before he founded The Eagle Online about a decade and a half ago,” the statement read.
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