The Sun loses correspondent in Kwara

The Kwara State media community has been thrown into mourning following the death of the state correspondent of The Sun Newspapers, Comrade Layiwola Olarewaju.

Olarewaju died at a private hospital in Ilọrin, the state capital, after a brief illness.

He was 69.

The family had not announced his burial arrangement at the time the filing of this report.

Layi, as he was fondly called, was once Chairman of the Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Kwara State Council.

In a condolence message jointly signed by the Chairman and secretary of the Correspondents Chapel, Alhaji Biola Azeez and Mosunmola Ayobami respectively, the deceased was described as a committed journalist and a unifying figure.

“It is with heavy heart but in total submission to the will of the Almighty God we announce the death of a committed elder and former chairman of Correspondents Chapel, Comrade Layi Olarewaju,” the statement read.

It said the late journalist was a unifying figure whose wealth of experience and commitment to the profession would be sorely missed.

“The Chapel pray God Almighty to console the family, associates, friends and give them the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

“He was a dutiful and committed unionist who fought for unity within the Chapel and the NUJ council in the state.

“He would be remembered for his friendliness and strong bond with journalists across media platforms” the statement added.

A colleague and Correspondent of the New Telegraph, Elder Stephen Oni, wrote: “I am devastated by the shocking, sad and terrible news. Correspondents Chapel has lost a warrior, a dogged and uncompromising fighter for the cause of our noble Chapel. You will be sorely missed.”

Jamal of Television Continental (TVC) described the death as shocking and prayed for God’s mercy on the deceased and his family.

The Daily Post correspondent, AbdulRazaq Adebayo, reflected on the fleeting nature of life, saying the late journalist’s passing was a painful reminder of human mortality.

Ademola Akinyemi of Vanguard Newspaper described the development as unbelievable, saying he had lost a confidant and brother.

On his part, Alhaji Tunde Akanbi of Voice of Nigeria also described the news as tragic and extended condolences to members of the Chapel.

Meanwhile, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has mourned the veteran journalist.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, the governor described Olarewaju as a seasoned journalist and media unionist whose legacies span decades of excellent reporting and advocacy for journalists’ welfare.

He commiserated with the NUJ State Council, the Correspondents Chapel, The Sun Newspapers and the family of the deceased, praying for the repose of his soul.

Also, former Senate President, Abubakar Bukola Saraki, expressed deep sorrow over the death, describing it as shocking and painful.

In a statement issued by his Press Officer on Local Matters, Abduganiyu Abdulqadir, Saraki said the late Olarewaju was a dedicated and diligent journalist who carried out his duties with commitment and integrity, contributing immensely to the growth of journalism in Kwara State.

He extended condolences to the immediate family, the Correspondents Chapel, the NUJ and the entire media community.

Similarly, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof Wahab Olasupo Egbewole (SAN) described the death as shocking and sad.

In a statement issued by the institution’s Directorate of Corporate Affairs, the Vice Chancellor noted that the late Olarewaju was a diligent media professional and a good friend of the university who consistently projected its activities with balance and responsibility.

He sympathised with the family and colleagues and prayed for eternal rest for the departed.

For his part, the Vice Chancellor of Kwara State University, Malete, Professor Shaykh Luqman Jimoh, has mourned his passing.

In a statement issued by the Acting Director of University Relations, Dr Saeedat Aliyu, on behalf of the university community, the Vice Chancellor described Olarewaju’s passing as a significant loss not only to the journalism profession but also to the people of Kwara State and Nigeria at large.

Professor Jimoh noted that the late journalist, a former Chairman of the Correspondents Chapel of the NUJ in the state, was dedicated to his profession and contributed meaningfully to the promotion of the university through responsible and professional reportage.

He prayed that God grant the NUJ, the family and loved ones of the deceased the strength and fortitude to bear the loss.

Daily Trust reports that the late Olarewaju is remembered as a respected reporter, committed unionist and bridge builder whose influence cut across generations of journalists in Kwara State.

His passing marks a significant loss to the profession he served with dedication and conviction.

He hauled from Omu Aran in Kwara.

Nigerians can now invest ₦2.5 million on premium domains and profit about ₦17-₦25 million. All earnings paid in US Dollars. Rather than wonder, click here to find out how it works.

Join Daily Trust WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You.