Goodnight, Mobolade Omonijo-The Gentleman Of Our Newsroom, By Dupe Olaoye-Osinkolu

We just lost a good man.

Mobolade Omonijo was not just our former Political Editor. He was our brother, our guide, our quiet strength.

In a newsroom where tempers could flare and pressure was constant, Mobolade was different. He was humble to a fault. God-fearing. So easy to relate with – whether you were an intern holding a notepad for the first time, or a veteran editor.

He covered politics without bitterness. He analysed power without being intoxicated by it. He had strong convictions, but he delivered them with grace. You could disagree with Mobolade and still walk away with respect for him – and with him still respecting you.

Many knew him as a sharp political mind on the Editorial Board of The Nation, a man whose letter to leaders showed his deep concern for justice and the poor. But those of us who worked with him knew his other side – the man who would ask after your family, who would pray, who would correct your copy gently and say, “my brother, let’s make it better.”

We have lost a gentleman of the press. A man who served truth with humility.

On behalf of all your colleagues, we say: Thank you for your service. Thank you for your kindness.

Rest well, Mobolade. Good night, and may the Almighty you served so faithfully grant you perfect rest.

You will be sorely missed.

May your kind soul rest in perfect peace.