By George Ozalla
President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON, has mourned the death of veteran journalist and publisher of The Eagle Online, Dotun Oladipo, describing him as a courageous, principled and dedicated media professional whose contributions to journalism and the growth of online media in Nigeria would remain indelible.
Akpabio, in a condolence message issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, expressed profound sadness over Oladipo’s passing, describing it as a painful loss to the Nigerian media industry and the country.
The Senate President commiserated with the deceased’s family, friends, colleagues and professional associates, particularly members of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP), where Oladipo served as Emeritus President.
According to Akpabio, Oladipo devoted a significant part of his life to the pursuit of truth, responsible journalism and the advancement of society, while playing an important role in the development of online journalism and public discourse.
“Dotun Oladipo was a courageous, principled and dedicated journalist who devoted a significant part of his life to the pursuit of truth, responsible journalism and the advancement of society,” Akpabio said.
He said the late journalist’s death represented a profound loss not only to his family and colleagues but also to the wider journalism profession and Nigeria, particularly at a time when the country’s media industry continues to play a critical role in shaping public opinion and holding institutions accountable.
Akpabio noted that Oladipo’s commitment to professional excellence, integrity and the public interest distinguished him in the media industry, adding that his work and contributions to online journalism would continue to be remembered.
The Senate President also reflected on Oladipo’s understanding of the responsibility of the press in a democratic society, drawing from the words of philosopher John Stuart Mill that, “He who knows only his own side of the case knows little of that.”
He said Oladipo understood that a free and responsible press must be willing to listen, question and speak truth to power, adding that the deceased’s career demonstrated the capacity of journalism to contribute meaningfully to the development of society.
“His life demonstrated that journalism, when guided by courage and conscience, can illuminate society and strengthen democracy,” Akpabio said.
He added that Oladipo’s legacy would continue to inspire journalists and media professionals committed to responsible journalism and the use of the media to promote national development.
“His legacy will continue to inspire journalists and media professionals who believe in the power of responsible journalism to strengthen democracy and contribute to national development,” he said.
Akpabio urged journalists and other media professionals to uphold the values for which Oladipo was known, particularly professionalism, integrity, courage and an unwavering commitment to the public interest.
He said preserving such values remained important to the credibility of the media and its role in strengthening democratic institutions and promoting accountability in the country.
The Senate President prayed that God Almighty would grant Oladipo eternal rest and give his family, friends, colleagues and loved ones the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
“May God acquaint his soul with the compass of His course,” Akpabio added.
