The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has expressed profound sorrow over the death of veteran journalist and Newswatch co-founder, Chief Dan Agbese, describing it as a significant loss to Nigeria’s media landscape and the democratic progress of the nation.
Akpabio’s statement was conveyed in a condolence message issued on Tuesday in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, following confirmation by the Agbese family that the esteemed columnist and editor passed away at the age of 81 in Benue State.
Akpabio hails Agbese’s legacy in Nigerian journalism
In the condolence message, Akpabio lauded Agbese’s contributions to journalism, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to truth, accountability, and the promotion of press freedom throughout his career. He said, “I deeply mourn the loss of Chief Dan Agbese, a distinguished journalist who devoted his life to the pursuit of truth, accountability, and press freedom. His writings shaped national conscience, challenged power, and illuminated the path of democracy. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of journalists yet unborn.”
He described Agbese as “a monumental loss to Nigeria’s journalism family and to all who value truth, integrity, and courageous storytelling,” noting that the late editor belonged to a generation of media practitioners who set high professional standards that influenced Nigerian journalism for decades.
Akpabio also extended heartfelt condolences to the Agbese family, the Nigeria Union of Journalists, and the Nigerian Guild of Editors, affirming that the nation mourns alongside the bereaved family and the wider media community.
Agbese’s career and personal life remembered
Chief Dan Agbese was a towering figure in Nigerian journalism and a founding partner of Newswatch magazine, established in 1984 alongside pioneering journalists Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu, and Yakubu Mohammed. Newswatch quickly became a benchmark for investigative journalism in Nigeria, introducing rigorous accountability reporting and reshaping the country’s media landscape.
Agbese held several editorial positions throughout his career, including Editor-in-Chief, Managing Editor, and Deputy Editor-in-Chief, leaving an indelible mark on every publication he led. His tenure until April 2010 as Editor-in-Chief of Newswatch was particularly noted for championing investigative stories that held power to account and informed public discourse across Nigeria.
In addition to his editorial achievements, Agbese was a prolific opinion writer, contributing widely read columns in Daily Trust and The Guardian. He also co-managed a media consultancy alongside Ekpu, Mohammed, and Soji Akinrinade, mentoring younger journalists and shaping media practice in Nigeria.
He is survived by his wife, Chief Rose Agbese, six children, and seven grandchildren, who will carry forward his legacy of integrity, dedication, and commitment to truth in their personal and professional lives.
Akpabio’s tribute highlighted Agbese’s enduring influence on Nigerian journalism, emphasizing that his contributions to press freedom, responsible reporting, and mentorship will continue to inspire present and future generations of journalists across the country. The Senate President noted that Agbese’s life work remains a testament to the power of courageous and principled journalism in advancing democracy and holding society accountable.