Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, has expressed deep sadness over the death of Dotun Oladipo, publisher of The Eagle Online, who died at the age of 56 after a brief illness.
Oladipo passed away on Tuesday, August 25, prompting an outpouring of condolences from members of the Nigerian media industry, colleagues and family members.
In a condolence statement signed by his Special Adviser on Research, Media and Documentation, Adeshina Oyetayo, Obasa described the late journalist as a consummate professional whose commitment to ethical and credible journalism distinguished him in an increasingly crowded media landscape.
The Speaker said Oladipo’s reputation for professional and ethical journalism had preceded him, particularly at a time when the speed and volume of social media content often overshadow substantive reporting.
Obasa recalled his interactions with the late publisher over the past several years, describing him as a dependable media partner, a thorough journalist and a genuinely good person.
According to the Speaker, Oladipo consistently demonstrated a willingness to provide insightful perspectives and valuable advice on topical issues during their interactions.
He also commended the late journalist’s contribution through The Eagle Online to public understanding of legislative activities, particularly the work of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
Obasa said Oladipo’s medium provided fair, factual and accurate coverage of the Assembly and his office, for which he expressed the institution’s appreciation.
Obasa Urges Media to Preserve Oladipo’s Legacy
While mourning the journalist’s death, Obasa called on the Nigerian media community to preserve and promote the values that defined Oladipo’s career.
He noted that Oladipo had successfully operated across both traditional and digital media platforms, leaving a significant mark on the industry over three decades.
The Speaker urged journalists and media organisations to emulate the deceased’s commitment to diligence, originality, professionalism and integrity.
He further called on media practitioners to use Oladipo’s legacy as an opportunity to strengthen ethical standards and contribute to sanitising Nigeria’s media environment.
Obasa extended the condolences of the Lagos State House of Assembly to Oladipo’s family, the management and staff of The Eagle Online, the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers, and the wider Nigerian media community.
He prayed that Almighty Allah (SWT) grant the deceased eternal rest and give his family, colleagues and associates the strength to bear the loss.
