Tinubu pays tribute to veteran journalist and cleric Mobolade Omonijo

President Bola Tinubu has condoled with the family of Mobolade Omonijo, a veteran journalist and clergyman, following his death. The President's message was made public on Wednesday in a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

Tinubu said Omonijo gave close to four decades to journalism and left a mark that would not be quickly forgotten. He described him as a journalist of immense value whose work would be remembered for years to come.

The President also sent condolences to the media community, naming The Nation newspaper in particular, and to the Church of God.

A career in newsrooms and the pulpit

Until his death, Omonijo was a member of The Nation's Editorial Board, where he wrote regularly on national issues. He had earlier held the position of Political Editor at both The Nation and Vanguard, and also worked with The Economist.

Tinubu said Omonijo's years on those assignments earned him a name for careful analysis, honesty in the craft and a firm grasp of Nigerian politics.

"He distinguished himself in the various assignments entrusted to him throughout nearly four decades of meritorious service in journalism," the President said.

Outside the newsroom, Omonijo served as Vicar of the Church of Pentecost in Dopemu, under the Diocese of Lagos West.

Tinubu prayed for the repose of his soul and for comfort for those he left behind.

For readers, Omonijo's death closes a long chapter in Nigerian political reporting. Journalists who covered power and policy in Lagos and Abuja over the past four decades would have read or worked alongside him, and his commentaries helped shape how many Nigerians understood the country's politics.