By BONIFACE AKARAH

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has expressed profound shock and sadness over the death of veteran journalist and publisher of The Eagle Online, Mr. Dotun Oladipo, describing his passing as a painful loss to Nigerian journalism.

In a condolence message signed by its President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, the NUJ said the media industry had lost a dedicated practitioner and advocate at a time when journalism required courage, professionalism, integrity and commitment to democratic values.

Oladipo was also a former President of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP).

The union said Oladipo devoted several decades to journalism and distinguished himself through his commitment to credible journalism, public accountability and the advancement of the media industry.

“His death is a painful loss to the Nigerian media community and the country at large. At a time when journalism requires courage, professionalism, integrity and commitment to democratic values, the media industry has lost one of its dedicated practitioners and advocates,” the NUJ said.

The union recalled Oladipo's role in the growth of digital journalism in Nigeria through The Eagle Online, saying he understood the changing media landscape and contributed to strengthening online journalism as a platform for informing the public and holding institutions accountable.

It added that his leadership of GOCOP reflected his commitment to the professionalisation of online publishing and the promotion of responsible journalism.

“As Publisher of The Eagle Online, he was at the forefront of the growth of digital journalism in Nigeria. He understood the changing media landscape and played a significant role in strengthening online journalism and ensuring that digital platforms remained important vehicles for informing the public and holding institutions accountable,” the NUJ stated.

According to the union, Oladipo's death represented a major setback to the journalism profession, noting that his impact went beyond his professional accomplishments.

“Beyond his professional achievements, Dotun was a colleague, mentor, advocate and friend to many within the media fraternity. His contributions will continue to resonate long after his passing,” the NUJ said.

Abdullahi, on behalf of the National Executive Council of the NUJ and the Nigerian journalism community, extended condolences to Oladipo's immediate family, the management and staff of The Eagle Online, members of GOCOP, his professional associates, friends and colleagues.

The NUJ urged the family to take solace in the legacy he left behind and the lives he touched through his journalism and leadership.

“Dotun Oladipo’s voice may have been silenced, but his contributions to Nigerian journalism will continue to speak for him,” the union said.

The NUJ President prayed for the repose of Oladipo's soul and for God to grant his family, colleagues and loved ones the strength and fortitude to bear what the union described as an irreparable loss.