By Gloria Ikibah
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has expressed profound sadness at the passing of esteemed journalist and media pioneer Chief Dan Agbese.
A founding figure of Newswatch magazine, Agbese built a distinguished career as a columnist, author, and journalism mentor, shaping generations of Nigerian reporters through his work and guidance. 
Originally from the Ikpilogwu clan in the Agila district of Ado Local Government Area, Benue State, he died on Monday at the age of 81, as confirmed by a statement issued by his family.
Speaker Abbas noted that Agbese’s death marks the loss of one of the country’s most influential voices in the media landscape, reflecting the impact he had on journalism in Nigeria and beyond.
In a condolence message issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, the Speaker recalled Chief Agbese’s days as a dogged journalist in the 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s.
According to Abbas, “Even after his retirement from active reporting, Chief Agbese continued his journalism practice by writing columns both on societal and media issues, one of which was The Ombudsman on the Daily Trust Newspaper, which he recently rested.
“The exploits of the likes of Chief Agbese shaped the Nigerian society positively, the late veteran journalist was one of the few who held leaders to account during his heyday”.
The Speaker specifically noted Chief Dan Agbese’s struggles to institute and strengthen Nigeria’s democracy, joining hands with like-minds in the pen profession for the struggle.
Speaker Abbas extended his condolences to the Agbese family, the people, and the government of Benue State, as well as the entire Nigerian media industry, over this irreparable loss. He prayed to Almighty God to console the family and grant his soul eternal rest.
