Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has condoled with the family of Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed and the Nigerian Union of Journalists following the death of the elder statesman and co-founder of Newswatch Magazine.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Hon. Ismaila Isah, the governor described the late journalist as a towering figure in Nigeria’s media history and a distinguished son of Kogi State from Dekina Local Government Area, whose impact extended far beyond journalism.
The statement noted that Mohammed was a trailblazer in modern investigative journalism and a committed nation builder whose legacy remains deeply etched in the country’s democratic journey.
“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 and a man whose influence shaped public discourse and strengthened accountability in a democracy,” he said.
Governor Ododo recalled that Mohammed’s involvement in the founding of Newswatch in the mid-1980s, alongside Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu and Dan Agbese, represented a defining moment in Nigeria’s media evolution, laying the groundwork for investigative reporting and strong editorial independence.
He also highlighted the late journalist’s record of public service, including his time as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and his contributions to the growth and 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,” he added.
The governor prayed that Almighty Allah grants the deceased eternal rest and offers comfort to his family, colleagues and all those affected by the loss.
