The Nigerian journalism community has been thrown into mourning following the death of a veteran journalist and former Managing Director of Owena Press Limited, publishers of The Hope newspapers, Chief Ademola Adetula.
Adetula, who also served as the News Editor of The Herald newspapers and was the Sasere of Owo Kingdom in Ondo State, died on Thursday, just days before his 74th birthday slated for August 6, 2026.
His death was announced in a statement issued on behalf of the family by Alhaji Mas’ud Adebimpe, who described him as a compassionate leader, a man of integrity and an accomplished professional whose life was dedicated to journalism and community service.
The family said Adetula devoted several decades to the journalism profession, serving in various capacities, including as News Editor of The Herald before rising to become the Managing Director of Owena Press Limited.
He also served as a National Trustee of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
“With total submission to the will of Almighty God, we announce the passing of our beloved Chief Ademola Adetula,” the statement read.
It added that he is survived by his family, friends, professional colleagues and numerous associates, while burial arrangements would be announced later.
Reacting to the development, the Kwara State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists described Adetula’s death as a painful loss to the journalism profession and the nation.
In a statement jointly signed by the council’s Chairman, Abdullateef Lanre Ahmed, and Secretary, Mahmood Olayinka Alaya, the union said it received the news of the demise of the veteran journalist with profound sadness.
The council noted that Adetula’s distinguished career at The Herald Newspaper and his later service as Managing Director of Owena Press Limited left an enduring legacy in Nigeria’s media industry.
According to the council, his commitment to professionalism, ethical journalism, mentorship and excellence earned him widespread respect among journalists across the country.
The statement added that his wealth of experience, dedication to truth and invaluable contributions to the growth of journalism would continue to inspire future generations of media professionals.
The Kwara NUJ commiserated with the government and people of Ondo State, the Owo Kingdom, the management and staff of Owena Press Limited, his family, friends and the entire Nigerian journalism community over what it described as an irreparable loss.
It prayed that God grants the late journalist eternal rest and gives his family, colleagues and loved ones the strength to bear the loss.
(vitalnewsngr.com)
