A solemn valedictory session was held on Thursday at the Nigeria Union of Journalist House (NUJ), Makurdi, in honor of the late veteran journalist, Dan Agbese, with prominent figures from the journalism fraternity and beyond gathering to pay their last respects.
Speaking at the event organized by the state council of NUJ, Dr. Elvis Ogenyi, Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Service Welfare, Office of the Head of Service, recalled his first job interview with Newswatch Magazine, where Agbese was instrumental. “He was a very meticulous man who stood for the truth,” Ogenyi said, describing Agbese as a “Benue hero to the nation” and an example to journalists.
Solomon Iorpev, Technical Adviser to the Governor of Benue State on Media, Publicity, and Strategic Communication, praised Agbese as a man to be proud of, citing the governor’s decision to rename Benue Printing and Publishing Corporation (BPPC) after him in recognition of his contributions. “He lived for the truth and gave his life to journalism, speaking truth to authorities in Nigeria and beyond,” Iorpev said, urging journalists to emulate Agbese’s example.
On his part, Comrade Bemdoo Ugber, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Benue Council, delivered a eulogy, saying Agbese was “a testament of courage, integrity, intellect, and unwavering commitment to truth.” Ugber noted Agbese’s remarkable service as Director General of Radio Benue and his impactful role as Director in the Ministry of Information, and praised his fearless pen and measured voice.
Other speakers included Babs Usigbe, Chairman of the Public Forum Committee of the NUJ, who commended veteran journalists for attending, and Bishop Uba Udenyi, who exhorted attendees, saying Agbese’s legacy lives on. “Journalists don’t die,” Udenyi said, urging young journalists to follow Agbese’s example.
The valedictory session was a celebration of Agbese’s life and contributions to Nigerian journalism, with attendees mourning his loss while celebrating his enduring impact.
