By Johnbosco Agbakwuru
ABUJA – President Bola Tinubu has expressed profound grief over the passing of Chief Dan Agbese, a veteran journalist, accomplished prose stylist, author, and co-founder of the iconic Newswatch weekly magazine.
Chief Dan Agbese, who held the traditional title of Awan’Otun of Agila town in Ado local government area of Benue State, passed away on Monday at the age of 81 in Lagos. His death marks the end of an era for Nigeria’s media landscape, which he helped shape through decades of dedicated service.
In a statement issued by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described Agbese’s death as both painful and a significant loss to Nigeria’s media industry and the nation as a whole.
According to the President, Agbese, alongside his colleagues at Newswatch, played a pioneering role in establishing investigative and interpretative journalism in Nigeria. Their work not only transformed media practices but also set high standards for ethical and courageous reporting, influencing generations of journalists.
“Dan Agbese was not just a journalist; he was an institution. His pen shaped public opinion, strengthened democratic discourse, and inspired a generation of media practitioners,” President Tinubu said.
He added, “He served Nigeria with integrity, courage, and commitment to truth and justice. His contribution to the evolution of the modern Nigerian press will be remembered forever. I join his family, particularly his wife, children, and the entire media community, in mourning. May his legacy continue to guide the noble calling of journalism in our nation.”
Chief Dan Agbese’s career and contributions remain a testament to the power of fearless journalism and the enduring impact of those who dedicate their lives to informing and shaping society
