Acting President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, has hailed the contribution of Late veteran journalist, playwright, academic and politician, Dr. Adinoyi Ojo Onukaba, to the media and the country at large.
Osinbajo therefore expressed sadness over his death in an accident on Sunday.
Onukaba was said to have been knocked down by a vehicle while trying to flee from armed robbers on Akure-Ilesha road.
He had earlier attended Chief Olusegun Obasanjo’s 80th birthday celebrations in Ogun state.
Prof. Osinbajo extended heartfelt condolences to his family, the government and people of Kogi State on the passing of an illustrious son, who served the nation with distinction, notably as Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Daily Times of Nigeria and Senior Special Assistant to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on Public Communication.
“During his lifetime, the brilliant and multi-talented journalist, academic and tested technocrat was a symbol of hope, integrity and decency, with a passion for excellence and community development that endeared him to those who came in direct contact with him, Prof. Osinbajo noted,” Akande’s statement read in part.
According to the Acting President, Dr Onukaba as biographer of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and co-author of a biography of Late Dele Giwa, will be long remembered for enriching the nation’s history with his simple but incisive style of writing.
He added that Dr. Onukaba had completed manuscripts of a new book “Peoples of Nigeria,” detailing in short crisp language the historical outlines of the many ethnic groups our country is blessed with. He was the co-editor of the forthcoming publication.
“His death at this time is indeed painful.
The Acting President urges all who mourn Dr. Onukaba to take solace knowing that his legacies will continue to remain relevant in Nigeria.
He prays that God Almighty will comfort his family, friends and the nation he served diligently,” the statement read.
