Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun on Tuesday described as shocking, the sudden death of Samuel Ibiyemi, the publisher of NewsDirect newspapers.

In a condolence message to his family and media colleagues, Gov. Abiodun described Ibiyemi as a brilliant and versatile journalist, who deployed his wealth of experience in the profession to better the society.

This is coming just as his family released a statement confirming his passing. It read,  “With deep sorrow in our hearts and total submission to the will of God, we announce the death, of our father, uncle and Publisher of Nigerian NewsDirect, Dr. Samuel Ibiyemi, which sad event occurred on July 4, 2023 at Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Ilisan-Remo after a brief illness. He was aged 56.

“We had thought that a beautiful and loving soul that the great Ife Prince was would be with us for a long while, but it has pleased the Almighty God, the unquestionable one to take him home for a deserved rest.”

Dr Samuel Ibiyemi, was a thoroughbred journalist, a servant of God and had even started out in life as a soldier with Nigerian Air Force before veering into journalism.

He established Nigerian NewsDirect about 13 years ago and the paper has continued to be one of the leading newspapers in the country contributing to the expansion of the socio-economic development of the nation.

Aside being a loving father and very caring boss to his staff and younger colleagues, Dr Ibiyemi was humility personified and a cheerful giver.

He was no doubt a colossus of some sort who bestrode the media world during his lifetime.

In submission to God, he planted Great Grace Apostolic Church, Gasline, Sango-Ota about four years back and was the presiding minister until he breathed his last.

The Ogun State governor also said the late publisher was a stickler for the truth, noting that through his medium, he contributed his own quota to the economic and political development of Nigeria.

“He was quick to realise the business aspect of journalism, hence, his foray into publishing.

” Through NewsDirect, a refreshing newspaper, Ibiyemi brought to bear his professionalism and business acumen.

“His death is a huge loss to his family and the journalism profession. His legacies are immense and indelible.

“We in Ogun state will miss this quintessential and courageous journalist of no mean repute. It is my prayer that God grants him eternal rest,” the governor said.

NUJ Mourns

The Lagos State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists also released a statement mourning the demise of renowned Journalist and Publisher, Dr Samuel Ibiyemi.

The statement signed by Adeleye Ajayi, Chairman and Tunde Olalere read: “The death of Ibiyemi came as a shock to all of us in the union. Ibiyemi was a versatile and courageous journalist.”

“He became an employer of labour with the publication of NewsDirect. He also made his mark in unionism as a strong member of the NUJ.

“His contributions to the economic and political developments of the country are commendable. He was both an economic journalist and a politician.”

“The NUJ prays that God will grant his soul eternal rest and grant his family, friends and associates the fortitude to bear the big loss.”

May his loving and caring soul rest in peace.