The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Oyo State is in deep mourning following the loss of two of its members within 24 hours.
The first member, Deacon Tunde Ogunesan, was a former Chief Correspondent and one-time NUJ Chairman at African Newspapers of Nigeria (ANN) Plc, publishers of Nigerian Tribune Newspapers. He passed away on Monday after a brief illness.
The second member, Mrs Victoria Ojo, who until her death was a staff of Amuludun FM, Moniya, Ibadan, passed away in the early hours of Tuesday.
The union expressed its condolences and described the deaths of the duo as a great loss to the council. The NUJ Chairman, Ademola Babalola, and the Secretary, Olusola Oladapo, signed a statement jointly grieving the loss of the two members, describing Ogunesan as a thoroughbred professional whose contributions to NUJ cannot be underestimated.
“Tunde Ogunesan was a pious Christian, a just personality, and a great advocate for justice and fair play in union matters. He was hardworking and was an exemplar of a good family man.
“Also, Mrs Victoria Ojo, was a quintessential journalist, a good wife, and mother. The vacuum she left behind would be very difficult to fill.”
Chairman of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Oyo State Chapter, Mr Niyi Alebiosu, also expressed shock at the death of Ogunesan, describing him as a selfless leader who worked for peace and justice to prevail in the unions, as well as a committed leader who strived for the progress of the Association.
The loss of the two members has left the NUJ and SWAN in Oyo State in deep sorrow and they pray that their souls rest in peace.
