The Benue Journalists Forum (BJF) today received with profound sorrow and deep regret the news of the death of one of Nigeria’s most respected and celebrated veteran journalists, Mr. Dan Agbese.
The Vice President of the group, Godwin Anyebe, in a statement released in Lagos, described Mr. Agbese’s demise as an irreparable loss, not just to the media industry, but particularly to the Benue nation, where he hailed from.
“The group mourns deeply the transition of a true icon of investigative journalism and literary prowess,” the statement read. “We particularly recall and cherish his immense encouragement and guidance in Journalism, which he extended generously to countless young reporters and editors from Benue State and across Nigeria. His commitment to journalistic ethics and fearless pursuit of truth set the benchmark for professional excellence.”
The group noted that Agbese’s unparalleled career and steadfast principles will forever ensure that he remains an inspiration to many of us Journalists from Benue extraction.
Dan Agbese, a native of Benue State, was a towering figure whose career spanned several decades and influential roles. He began his journey in journalism, notably serving as the Editor of the Nigerian Standard in Jos, where his sharp editorial sense quickly earned him recognition.
His legacy is most famously cemented as one of the four co-founders of the groundbreaking Newswatch magazine in 1985, alongside Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu, and Yakubu Mohammed. This magazine revolutionized investigative and feature journalism in Nigeria. He later served as the Editor-in-Chief and Chief Executive Officer of the company, steering it through critical periods in the country’s history.
Beyond the newsroom, Agbese was a prolific author and columnist, whose witty, critical, and insightful commentary in his weekly columns provided essential perspectives on Nigerian politics and society. His numerous books are enduring contributions to Nigerian socio-political discourse.
The Benue Journalists Forum of Nigeria extends its deepest condolences to his immediate family, his former colleagues at Newswatch, and the entire Nigerian media community. We pray that God grants his soul eternal rest and provides his loved ones the fortitude to bear this painful loss.
