From Okwe Obi, Abuja
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council and the Agriculture Correspondents Association of Nigeria (ACAN) have expressed sadness over the demise of a senior journalist, John Oba, who died on Thursday after a brief illness.
NUJ FCT Chairman, Osaretin Osadebamwen and Secretary of Council, Ochiaka Ugwu, Chairman and Secretary of Council respectively, in a statement yesterday, noted that Oba who worked at different times with both Leadership and Blueprint Newspapers was a tireless defender of the freedom, independence and pluralism of the media.
“Responsible reportage was his life’s struggle, which he fought with unshakeable conviction and upheld the ethics of the profession till the end.
“With boundless energy and a ready commitment to proactive reporting, Oba in synergy with his fellow Agric reporters nurtured and registered “The Media Network for Food and Water Safety” which was meant to revolutionize food and water reportage in Nigeria. This best explained why many media practitioners mourned his passing.
“There is no doubt that this is certainly not the best of time for the NUJ family and Agric correspondents. It is more disturbing that he died when his services were most needed by the Council and his community.
“Oba was a devoted journalist, an exemplary, unpretentious and hard-working newsman, who plied his trade with diligence, devotion and integrity.
“He was modest, calm and gentle during his lifetime and would be greatly missed by his colleagues.
“The truth remains that, the journalism world has lost an industrious and active practitioner to the cold hands of death,” the statement read.
“The NUJ FCT condoles his immediate family and prays that God will give them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss”.
Also, ACAN Public Relations Officer, Juliana Agbo, said: “Mr. Oba was more than just an exceptional journalist, he was a dedicated Christian, advocate for truth and justice, committed to bringing important stories to light throughout his career.
“His legacy is one of journalistic excellence, unwavering integrity, and a steadfast commitment to serving the public good.
“Beyond his role as an agriculture correspondent, Mr. Oba was a passionate farmer who believed that reporting on agriculture without firsthand farming experience was a missed opportunity.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.
“The loss of such a distinguished professional is profoundly felt by all of us at ACAN.”