The remains of veteran journalist and co-founder of the defunct Newswatch magazine, Yakubu Mohammed, have been laid to rest in Ologba, Anyigba, in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The burial, which commenced at about 11 am on Thursday, was presided over by the Chief Imam, Alhaji Musa, alongside Mallam Dauda Omeje.
In his sermon, the Chief Imam emphasised the need for people to prepare for eternity, noting that death is inevitable.
“All of us must prepare for death because it’s a necessary end for all mankind. We will all taste death one day. How we prepare for it matters. We must live in peace withone another and live a life of service to humanity, like our brother, Muhammed,” the Imam stressed.
He described the late Mohammed as a selfless man who lived for his community, adding that he remained steadfast in his faith.
“As a devoted Muslim, he never compromised his religion. He was committed to the development of our land,” the cleric said.
The burial was attended by religious and traditional leaders, as well as family members.
Mohammed died on Wednesday at the age of 75.
Born on April 4, 1950, Mohammed holds a bachelor’s degree in science.
He attended St Joseph’s Primary School, Ayangba, in 1964; Government Secondary School, Okene, between 1965 and 1969; the University of Lagos from 1972 to 1975; and the Glasgow College of Technology in Scotland between 1978 and 1979.
On Wednesday, Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo, mourned Mohammed, describing him as a pioneer of modern investigative journalism in Nigeria whose impact on nation-building extended beyond the media.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Ismaila Isah, the governor said, “As a co-founder of the iconic Newswatch magazine, Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed belonged to a rare generation of journalists who redefined courage, professionalism and integrity in Nigerian journalism. He was a man whose influence shaped public discourse and strengthened accountability in our democracy.”
The governor recalled that Mohammed’s role in establishing Newswatch in the mid-1980s marked a turning point in Nigeria’s media history, setting enduring standards for investigative reporting and editorial independence.
Ododo also highlighted Mohammed’s record of public service, including his tenure as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, as well as his contributions to the development of Kogi State.
“His love for Kogi State was evident in his commitment to its growth and his willingness to serve in different capacities. He was a bridge-builder, a mentor to many and a voice of conscience in national affairs,” the governor added.
Also on Wednesday, the Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigeria and the Nigerian Guild of Editors mourned the passing of the co-founder of Newswatch magazine.
Mohammed, who established Newswatch alongside the late Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu, and the late Dan Agbese, died after a brief illness.
The NPAN, in a statement by its General Secretary, Angela Emuwa, described Mohammed as an icon of investigative journalism.
The association noted that Mohammed and Agbese, who operated during a challenging military era, remained fearless in defending Nigerians and set a gold standard for editorial excellence.
“Yakubu Mohammed was an icon of investigative journalism, and his contributions to the Nigerian media landscape will be forever remembered. His memoir, ‘Beyond Expectations’, published earlier this year, is a testament to his remarkable journey and the struggles he faced in his illustrious career. The book offers a glimpse into the history of Newswatch and the role he played in shaping the magazine’s direction,” the statement read.
The association expressed sadness that Mohammed’s death came shortly after that of Agbese.
“These losses mark a significant void in the Nigerian journalism community. We pray that their legacies will continue to inspire future generations of journalists,” the statement added.
It further stated:
“On behalf of all NPAN members, we extend our deepest condolences to the Mohammed family; the government and people of Kogi State; surviving Newswatch co-founder Ray Ekpu; Soji Akinrinade, former Editor-in-Chief of Newswatch; the Nigerian Guild of Editors; and the Nigerian Union of Journalists. We pray for the repose of his soul and for the strength of his loved ones to bear this monumental loss.”
Similarly, the NGE, in a statement signed by its President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Uneh, mourned the deaths of Mohammed and Agbese, describing them as irreplaceable treasures of Nigerian journalism.
The guild noted that both journalists were fearless, professional, and iconic figures whose work brought prestige to the Nigerian press.
“Their incisive commentaries and commitment to press freedom and democratic values inspired many. They gave investigative journalism in Nigeria momentum and contributed immensely to nation-building,” the statement said.
In their honour, the NGE urged media practitioners to recommit themselves to truth, accuracy, fairness, objectivity, independence, integrity, ethical standards, transparency, and accountability.
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