TD LAGOS — Former presidential candidate and prominent opposition leader, Peter Obi, has mourned the death of veteran journalist and publisher of The Eagle Online, Dotun Oladipo.
Peter Obi described him as a courageous professional who made significant contributions to Nigerian journalism and democracy.
Oladipo, 56, reportedly died on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, after falling ill at his office in Lagos.
He was a former President of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) and had a long career spanning several leading Nigerian media organisations.
Before establishing The Eagle Online, Oladipo served as Politics Editor of The Punch and worked with other major publications, including The Tribune, The Compass and The Sun.
In a condolence message titled “Farewell to a Courageous Journalist: Dotun Oladipo,” Obi said he received the news of Oladipo’s death with “profound sadness.”
Obi described the late journalist as a “courageous and committed professional” who dedicated his life to journalism, public enlightenment and the defence of truth and democratic values.
“Through his journalism and leadership, he made a lasting contribution to the growth of Nigeria’s online media and the strengthening of our democracy,” Obi said.
The former Anambra State governor said Oladipo’s death represented a painful loss not only to his family and colleagues but also to the wider Nigerian media community and the country.
He extended his condolences to Oladipo’s family, friends, colleagues and members of the Nigerian media, praying that God would grant them strength to cope with the loss and grant the deceased eternal rest.
Oladipo’s death has prompted tributes from political leaders, journalists, media organisations and professional bodies, highlighting his years of service to Nigerian journalism and the development of the country’s digital media space.
Obi’s tribute also underscored the broader democratic importance of independent journalism, particularly the role of journalists and online publishers in informing citizens, scrutinising public institutions and promoting accountability.
The death of the 56-year-old publisher has therefore left a significant void in Nigeria’s evolving digital media landscape.
There Oladipo was regarded as one of the professionals who helped shape the country’s online publishing industry.
This Dawn News reached out to one of his staff, who confirmed that Oladipo died on August 25 from a sudden cardiac seizure.
This medium also Expresses sadness over his death and wishes his family and loved ones peace.
