By Francisco Okoh
Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, has expressed profound sorrow over the death of veteran journalist and media icon, Ben Adaji, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 67.
According to reports, Adaji died around 4 p.m. at his country home in Abo-Ojikpadala, Imane District of Olamaboro Local Government Area, Kogi State.
In a condolence message issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communications, Emmanuel Bello, Governor Kefas described the late journalist’s passing as a painful loss to his family, the media profession, and the people of Taraba State.
The governor praised Adaji as a courageous and principled journalist who remained committed to the ethics of the profession throughout his distinguished career. He noted that the deceased played a vital role in promoting press freedom and democratic values through fearless reporting and unwavering professionalism.
“Chief Ben Adaji was a forthright journalist who stayed true to the core principles of journalism. His dedication to truth and accountability earned him widespread respect within and beyond the media community,” Kefas stated.
Until his death, Adaji served as the Taraba State Correspondent of Aljazira Nigeria Newspaper. During his illustrious career spanning several decades, he worked with prominent media organizations, including TheNEWS, TEMPO, PM NEWS, The Nation, and National Trail.
The governor also recalled Adaji’s service as a former Chairman of the Taraba State Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), where he contributed significantly to the advancement of journalism and the welfare of media practitioners.
Beyond journalism, Adaji was a respected traditional leader who held the title of Abujah of Oda Ojiji Imane in Kogi State. His reign was marked by efforts aimed at preserving cultural heritage and fostering community development.
Governor Kefas further paid tribute to the late journalist’s courage in speaking truth to power, recalling his numerous confrontations with authorities during the military era in defence of democratic ideals and freedom of expression.
He described Adaji as a mentor to younger journalists, a champion of ethical reporting, and an enduring symbol of journalistic excellence.
The governor extended his heartfelt condolences to the Adaji family, the Nigerian Union of Journalists, and the entire media community, praying for the peaceful repose of the deceased’s soul.
The statement was signed by Emmanuel Bello, Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communications to Governor Agbu Kefas.