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Agbese: A Tribute to a Journalism Legend
One does not truly grasp the significance of specific expressions until circumstances provide a personal framework for understanding them.
The departure to eternal glory of Chief Daniel Ochima Agbese yesterday at the age of 81 is one of those instances.
Although one has to accept the harsh reality of his passing, it also serves as a tribute to life, as he led a meaningful existence and provided numerous reasons for joy throughout his time on earth.
At the gathering held to celebrate his 70th birthday in 2014, the Awan'Otun of Agila formally and seriously addressed God and the people present at the event.
Having expressed gratitude for reaching the biblical age of seventy years, he made it evident that he does not wish his time on Earth to extend so long that he would become a burden to others.
A renowned figure in journalism stated that he wishes to leave at a stage in life where he can fully value a long and satisfying existence, yet remain robust enough to continue without causing distress to others.
It was evident that, despite having provided support to many over the years, he did not wish to cause anyone trouble; although he had offered refuge to numerous people, he did not want to be a burden to anyone; even though he had been a strong foundation and provided comfort to many, he did not want to become a source of suffering or distress for others.
His conventional title of Awan'Otun, which translates to "it doesn't happen if you are not around," is unique, showcasing a creativity that reflects his talent for bringing vibrancy and energy to everything he participates in.
On the occasion of his 70th birthday, I shared with him how his name has brought vibrancy to my life, as it came before me wherever I went while pursuing a career in journalism.
The first question I'm typically asked wherever I go," I said, "is whether I'm connected to Dan Agbese, and that has benefited me in numerous positive ways.
What I failed to mention at the time was that it also carried a significant responsibility, as it involved immense expectations from people who anticipate seeing the smooth writing and profound philosophy linked to his work when I write.
I have come to understand that time passes more quickly than anticipated. It feels as though it was only yesterday when he mentioned not wanting to be a burden to others, yet at that moment, the true significance seemed unlikely and completely unrelated to reality.
Some of us regarded it as a joke, since it was difficult to envision life without the Awan'Otun. Acknowledging that this could happen meant implying that he would one day be gone, and that is how, during the eleven years he lived after we had forgotten everything he had said, until we were suddenly reminded of the truth yesterday.
One of the aspects I struggled to extract from him was his enthusiasm for reading. This trait, which I can confidently say I haven't encountered in anyone else, was filled with intense dedication.
He would read before going to bed, regardless of how late it was, and you can be certain he would already be up in his study, engrossed in a book, even before you dared to knock on the door.
He carries books with him each time he heads to the office and returns with pages turned open, clearly intending to resume where he left off.
In a similar manner, he dedicated himself to writing, in addition to his regular newspaper columns, producing several books, one of which is the Newswatch Style Book, in which he clearly outlined the common errors in news writing and reporting.
It's no surprise that even after leaving active journalism, his love for writing would not let him go.
He continued to contribute to numerous newspapers and other publications, offering his advice where necessary and providing his uncle-like guidance on journalistic practices through the ombudsman column in the Sunday Trust, which focused on upholding the ethical standards of the profession.
Having kept two columns in Sunday Trust for many years, he was pleased to be released from the routine of weekly contributions because of his age last year. However, he assured us that this did not mean he would cease writing—only that he would do so at his own speed from that point forward.
He presented the speech during the inauguration of the Weekly Trust.
In what is likely his final press interview, he provided a glimpse into his knowledge about General Yakubu Gowon in a special edition commemorating the latter's birthday on October 19, 2024.
He was interviewed regarding his presence on the trip to Uganda with the then head of state when the coup that removed Gowon from power took place, and how they learned of the news in Kampala.
He had a strong relationship with Aper Aku, the 2nd Republic governor of Benue State, who named him head of the state-run radio and later served as Special Adviser, Director of Information, Benue State, from 1980 to 1982.
He subsequently became the editor of the New Nigerian newspapers and held this position until 1984.
It was there that he joined forces with Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu, and Yakubu Mohammed to establish Newswatch Magazine, which emerged as a pioneer in broadening journalistic practices in Nigeria.
He also demonstrated ingenuity in the growth of his community. In addition to serving as the leading force in numerous development initiatives, he has maintained an open welcome for many.
I previously wrote last year about how he constructed a church for his community in an article titled, "The house Dan Agbese built for God."
Let me partially restate what I had written earlier.
The enthusiasm of the Catholic community in Apa, Agila, to keep worshipping the Almighty was so strong that they transformed every available space they encountered into a place of worship, thus demonstrating their belief in Matthew 18:20, which states, "For where two or three are gathered in my name, there I am among them."
Their continuous effort to locate a space for worship and other religious activities led them to various locations, including the residence of Otse Agila, Chief Philip Agbese Onazi, where they maintained their community.
By chance, that was where, as the old saying goes, opportunity encountered preparation.
One day, when Chief Agbese reached the palace, he observed a group of individuals assembled at the Itakpa, the throne hall where his late father and subsequently his older brother, Chief Michael Onazi Agbese, would sit and serve the community.
Curious, he inquired about their presence there, and they explained that they were praying, mentioning that this is where they usually hold their prayer gatherings.
He inquired about the name of the church they are associated with, and to his surprise, they mentioned they are from the St. Daniel Catholic Church in Apa, Agila.
'Saint Daniel?' What a coincidence! Was that not a calculated move to affect him emotionally, considering his first name is Daniel? He chose to look deeper.
Several months passed, and on another day, he returned to the village and once more observed the same group of people assembled in the same location. He realized they truly longed for a place to pray to God and resolved to assist them.
This resulted in the start of a process that eventually led to the construction of the Catholic church in the area of Apa, Agila, referred to as New Jerusalem.
Upon learning of his passing, I contacted his former colleagues and associates, such as Malam Mohammed Haruna, Garba Shehu, Jonathan Ishaku, Femi Adesina, Anthony Sani, and Mahmud Jega, to inform them. They all showed surprise but praised him greatly.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Abba Tajudeen, in a statement, referred to Chief Agbese as a legend in journalism, noting that the profession has lost one of its most outstanding figures.
A editor, who used to bother him for his weekly column when he was still writing, informed me that she recently inquired how he was feeling, and he replied, "at my age, how am I supposed to feel?"
Chief Agbese obtained his degree in mass communications and journalism from the University of Lagos and Columbia University in New York, respectively.
He served as the chairman of the Arewa Media Forum until his passing and has previously received the Pitman Prize Award from Columbia University, along with numerous other honors.
His desire to leave without causing anyone sorrow did not materialize. Many would have rather taken care of him than face the agony of separation. The discomfort he aimed to prevent for us has now arrived in a different way.
May God give Chief Daniel Ochima Agbese eternal peace in His presence.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).Demikianlah Artikel Agbese: A Tribute to a Journalism Legend
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