By Chimezie Godfrey
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has described the late Dan Agbese as a “titan of truth” and one of the most influential voices that shaped modern Nigerian journalism.
In a statement on Tuesday, Idris said he received the news of Agbese’s passing with deep sadness, noting that the co-founder of the trailblazing Newswatch magazine remained a towering figure whose work transformed public discourse in Nigeria.
According to the minister, Agbese embodied courage, intellectual honesty and an unshakeable commitment to press freedom, values he championed consistently through his famous No Holds Barred column and decades of fearless journalism.
Idris said Agbese’s death comes at a time when the Tinubu administration is reinforcing the ideals he spent his life defending: widening the democratic space, promoting robust citizen engagement, and upholding free speech as a democratic cornerstone.
He stated,”I am deeply saddened by the passing of Mr Dan Agbese, a foundational pillar of Nigeria’s contemporary journalism and a tireless advocate for a free press.
”Agbese was a titan of truth whose legacy formed the foundation of enlightened public discourse by co-founding the trailblazing Newswatch magazine, which became a defining institution in our national life.
”Indeed, he championed the values of courage, intellectual integrity, and an unwavering commitment to press freedom, the very cornerstones of a vibrant democracy. Through his incisive “No Holds Barred” column and a lifetime of work, he held power to account and dedicated himself to the project of nation-building.”
Dan Agbese was a giant, and his profound contributions will continue to illuminate the path forward for Nigeria. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
”Agbese’s passing comes at a time when the Tinubu administration is deeply committed to fostering the very principles he fought for – an expanded democratic space, robust citizen engagement, and free speech.
”I therefore mourn him not only with grief, but with deep gratitude for a legacy that has indelibly shaped our nation’s discourse,” he stated.
He extended heartfelt condolences to Agbese’s family, colleagues, and the wider media community.”My heartfelt condolences go to his family, colleagues, and the entire media fraternity,” Idris stated.