From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
Nigeria’s journalism community has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran journalist, former Managing Director of Owena Press Limited, publishers of The Hope newspapers, and former News Editor of The Herald newspapers, Chief Ademola Adetula.
Adetula, who was the Sasere of Owo Kingdom in Ondo State and a National Trustee of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), died on Thursday, just days before his 74th birthday scheduled for August 6, 2026.
His death was announced in a statement issued on behalf of the family by Alhaji Mas’ud Adebimpe, who described the late media icon as a devoted professional, compassionate leader and man of integrity whose impact transcended journalism.
The family stated, “With total submission to the will of Almighty God, we announce the passing of our beloved Chief Ademola Adetula.”
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According to the statement, Adetula dedicated several decades of his life to journalism, rising through the ranks to serve as News Editor of The Herald newspapers before becoming the Managing Director of Owena Press Limited, publishers of The Hope newspapers.
It noted that his contributions to journalism and public service earned him widespread admiration, while his commitment to professional excellence and community development touched countless lives.
The family added that burial arrangements would be announced later, noting that he is survived by his family, friends, professional colleagues and numerous associates.
Reacting to the sad development, the Kwara State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists described Adetula’s death as a painful loss to the journalism profession and the nation.
In a statement jointly signed by the council’s Chairman, Abdullateef Lanre Ahmed, and Secretary, Mahmood Olayinka Alaya, the union said it received news of the passing of the veteran journalist with profound sadness.
The council described Adetula as an accomplished journalist whose remarkable contributions left an enduring legacy in the Nigerian media industry.
It recalled his distinguished service at The Herald Newspaper and his leadership as Managing Director of Owena Press Limited, where he was credited with promoting ethical journalism and strengthening media development.
According to the council, his commitment to professionalism, mentorship and excellence earned him the admiration and respect of journalists across the country.
“The late Chief Ademola Adetula will be sorely missed in the journalism profession, particularly for his wealth of experience, dedication to truth and invaluable contributions to the growth of the media industry,” the statement said.
The Kwara NUJ commiserated with the government and people of Ondo State, the Owo Kingdom, the management and staff of Owena Press Limited, his family, friends and the entire Nigerian journalism community over what it described as an irreparable loss.
The council also prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul and for God to grant his family, colleagues and loved ones the strength to bear the loss.
