NGE, Obaseki, Sanwo-Olu mourn NewsDirect Publisher, say death shocking

Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) said it was deeply saddened and shocked by the death of one of its members and Publisher of NewsDirect Newspapers Group, Dr. Samuel Ibiyemi, on Tuesday.

Aged 56, Ibiyemi succumbed to death at Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Ilisan, Ogun State, where he was undergoing treatment.

In a statement, yesterday, by NGE President, Eze Anaba, and its General Secretary, Dr. Iyobosa Uwugiaren, the professional body of editors in Nigeria described the late publisher as a committed member of NGE, who made his mark in journalism profession, as a reporter, business editor, editor and publisher.

The statement reads: ”Even when Dr. Samuel Ibiyemi was struggling between life and death on his sick bed at the hospital, he was still breathing journalism; he wanted to know, from his colleagues, the latest happenings in our society; he called to find out the outcome of the national biennial convention of the NGE in Owerri.

”We were regularly in touch with him and his family; he assured us of his determination to survive; we were looking forward to him coming out of the hospital.

MEANWHILE, Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has expressed sadness over the passing of the renowned journalist and publisher.

In a statement, Obaseki said the death of Ibiyemi came to him as a shock, noting that he would be greatly missed.

He said: “I am saddened by the news of the passing of renowned journalist, clergy and publisher of Nigerian NewsDirect, Dr. Samuel Ibiyemi.”

“Ibiyemi was a visionary and exceptional leader, who dedicated his life to advancing the growth of our nation and uplifting the lives of its people.

ALSO, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has mourned Ibiyemi.

In a statement, yesterday, he described the publisher’s death as shocking and a colossal loss to journalism, as well as and the entire media industry in Nigeria.

Sanwo-Olu, in a condolence message, said Ibiyemi’s death is painful and heartbreaking, noting that his experience and knowledge would be greatly missed.