By GARBA MUHAMMAD, Kaduna

Niger State Council of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has lost the Guardian Correspondent in the state, Elder Akin Alofetekun.

He died Tuesday evening at Minna General Hospital after a brief illness.

“We mourn his death with heavy heart and the consolation that he lived a fulfilled life and as a member who contributed immensely to the development of journalism in the state,” a statement jointly signed by Abdu Idris, Chairman of the council, and Abu Nmodu, Secretary.

“His contributions made the council robust and vibrant as he practised journalism with a style expected of a thorough bred professional. His death came when more contributions from him were most needed.

“We will especially miss his usual mentoring of the younger ones as he was always encouraging younger professionals to acquire more education and knowledge on the job,” the statement added.

Late Elder Akin Alofetekun graduated from the famous University of Ibadan in 1985 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre Arts, and a Master’s degree in Business Administration (Public Relations) from Imo State University. He started his journalism career with Niger State Government-own Newsline Newspapers before moving to Reporter Newspapers Kaduna, Sketch Newspapers Ibadan, Daily Times, Sun Newspapers and then Guardian Newspapers, where he worked until his death.

A unionist, he was a one-time Acting Chairman, Correspondents Chapel of Niger State Council, Vice Chairman of the Niger State Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) and chairman of various committees in the council.

He died at the age of 63, survived by his wife, Mrs. Olufunke Alofetekun, and four children, among them Kofo of National Examinations Council (NECO), Gboyega, IT expert, and Jummai of Prestige FM Minna.

“We pray that God may be pleased with him and grant him eternal rest as well as the family the fortitude to bear the loss. Rest on Elder,” the statement said.

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