NUJ FCT Honours Late Patrick Osadebamwen, Seeks Support for His Three Children

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, has established a trust fund to support the education and welfare of the three children left behind by its former Chairman, the late Patrick Osadebamwen.

The initiative was announced on Monday during a Night of Tribute held at the NUJ FCT Council Secretariat in Utako, Abuja, where family members, journalists, former council chairmen, professional colleagues, friends and well-wishers gathered to honour the late veteran journalist and reflect on his life and contributions to the profession.

Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, said the trust fund was established as part of the council’s commitment to supporting Osadebamwen’s family following his death.

Ike described Osadebamwen as a journalist who made significant contributions to the profession and the NUJ, noting that he worked with Union Newspaper, Core TV, The Nigerian Tribune and Kaftan TV before serving as Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council.

She said his death was a reminder of the temporary nature of life and professional positions, stressing that what remains is the impact individuals make through their service to institutions and society.

The NUJ FCT chairman also called for stronger bonds, forgiveness and solidarity among journalists, urging members to see Osadebamwen’s death as an opportunity to resolve differences and strengthen unity within the profession.

She expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and the FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Mohammed Sanusi, for their prompt assistance in evacuating Osadebamwen’s remains and supporting his family during the difficult period.

Speaking on behalf of the NUJ National President, Achike Chude urged journalists and Nigerians to embrace tolerance, forgiveness and love while they are still alive, noting that although death is inevitable, no one knows when or how it will come.

Former chairmen of the NUJ FCT Council similarly appealed to members to use the late journalist’s passing as an opportunity for reconciliation, urging colleagues to reconnect, resolve disagreements and work together in the interest of the Union.

Former President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Comrade Evelyn Oyilo, described Osadebamwen as a friend with a strong personality who was nevertheless willing to seek peace whenever disagreements arose. She also called for forgiveness, love and unity among journalists.

The National President of NAWOJ, Comrade Aisha Ibrahim Kwaya-Bura, represented by the FCT Chairperson, Bassey Ita Ikpang, urged journalists to support one another and respond with kindness whenever colleagues seek assistance.

The immediate past President of NAWOJ, Comrade Ladi Bala, called on former NUJ leaders to avoid taking disagreements and grievances to social media, stressing the need for reconciliation and collective efforts to strengthen the Union.

Veteran journalist and Executive Director of Men Against Rape, Dr. Lemmy Ughegbe, also appealed for reconciliation among members, describing the tribute as a painful reminder that disagreements should never be allowed to permanently damage relationships.

Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, paid tribute to the late journalist and assured his family of the Nigeria Police Force’s support.

Represented by CSP Habib, the IGP said he had indicated his willingness to contribute to the trust fund established for the education and welfare of Osadebamwen’s children.

Habib appealed to journalists, individuals and organisations to contribute to the fund, stressing that supporting the three children was a collective responsibility.

He said the sight of the children was deeply touching and urged members of the profession to do everything possible to ensure that they receive the support and opportunities needed to build a meaningful future.

The Night of Tribute ended with renewed calls for unity, forgiveness, compassion and stronger relationships among journalists, with speakers urging members to honour Osadebamwen’s memory not only through words but by supporting the family he left behind.