Buhari Mourns Journalism Icon, Alhaji Kola Animasaun

Malik Yahya/

President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed a sense of loss at the passage of iconic journalist, Kola Animasaun, who died at 79.

A statement from the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Malam Garba Shehu, says: “On behalf of the Federal Government, the President offers deepest condolences to the Animasaun family and friends, including the management of Vanguard Media Limited, publishers of Vanguard Newspapers, where the late veteran newsman spent many years as a formidable columnist.

“The President also commiserates with the Nigerian Union of Journalists and the Nigerian Guild of Editors on the demise of one of the country’s most trusted and respected columnists.

“President Buhari believes that Alhaji Animasaun will be long remembered and honoured for the rich and elucidating write-ups in the ”Voice of Reason” column he leaves behind; the many literary works he authored as well as the array of media professionals he trained and mentored on the ethics of the noble pen profession.

“As a distinguished member of the Fourth Estate of the Realm who was largely recognized and admired by colleagues as a consummate professional, the President pays tribute to the late veteran’s contributions to the development of journalism in the country.

“He prays Almighty Allah to grant eternal rest to the soul of the departed Animasaun and comfort his family and all who mourn.”