*Ogun Gov, Guild of Editors, Lagos NUJ mourns
Dr Samuel Ibiyemi, the publisher of NewsDirect newspaper, is dead.
Ibiyemi reportedly died Tuesday evening at the Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Ilishan Remo, Ogun State after protracted illness.
He succumbed to death, after a series of surgical operations and treatment.
In the meantime, the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has described the death of Ibiyemi as shocking.
In a condolence message to his family and media colleagues, Abiodun described Dr. Ibiyemi as a brilliant and versatile journalist, who deployed his wealth of experience in the profession to better the society.
He 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, Dr. 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 grant him eternal rest,” the governor said.
Guild of Editors grieves
The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has expressed grieve over the shocking death of one of its members and Publisher of NewsDirect Newspapers Group, Dr Samuel Ibiyemi, Aged 56.
NGE President Eze Anaba and General-Secretary, Iyobosa Uwugiaren, in a statement, on Wednesday, in Lagos, described the late publisher as a committed member of the Guild.
“He made his mark in the journalism profession as a reporter, business editor, editor and publisher.
“Even when Dr Samuel Ibiyemi was struggling between life and death in hospital, he was still breathing journalism.
“He wanted to know from colleagues the latest happenings in our society. He also called to find out the outcome of our National Biennial Convention in Owerri.
“We were regularly in touch with him and his family and he assured us of his determination to survive.
