The Diocese of Lagos West has announced the death of Reverend Mobolade Omonijo, a veteran journalist and member of The Nation Editorial Board, who died on October 15, 2026, at the age of 63 after a brief illness.
In a statement shared with PUNCH Online on Monday, the diocese described Omonijo as a dedicated member of its Media and Publicity Department.
He served as the Vicar of the Church of Pentecost in Dopemu, Lagos, while maintaining a journalism career spanning approximately four decades.
The statement, signed by the Administrative Assistant to the Bishop, described him as “very meek, lovely, conscientious, articulate, assiduous and meticulous”, and praised his “remarkable verbal dexterity”.
The diocese also appealed to the public to remember his children and other family members in their prayers.
“May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace, and rise in glory. Amen,” the statement added.
Omonijo Served at The Nation for Nearly Two Decades
The Nation independently confirmed Omonijo’s death in a report published on Monday, paying tribute to his service as the newspaper’s Group Political Editor.
A graduate of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Omonijo previously worked for The Economist and Vanguard before joining The Nation in 2008.
His career combined political reporting, editorial work and his responsibilities as a clergyman in Lagos.
Sam Omatseye Pays Tribute to Late Journalist
The Nation Editorial Board Chairman, Sam Omatseye, expressed sorrow over Omonijo’s death, describing the loss as difficult to comprehend.
“Omonijo’s loss is impossible to wrap one’s mind around,” Omatseye said.
He remembered his colleague as a man who balanced seriousness with humour and noted that Omonijo had been pious even before becoming a reverend.
“As a man, he was a friend. As a reporter, he was thorough and unsparing in rigour,” Omatseye said.
Omatseye also praised Omonijo’s professionalism and contributions to the newspaper, describing him as “one of the best”.
Colleagues Recall His Contribution to Editorial Discussions
According to Omatseye, health challenges had prevented Omonijo from continuing in his role as political editor.
However, he remained involved in the newspaper’s editorial work and brought a critical perspective to Editorial Board discussions. Omatseye said Omonijo sought to move beyond partisan positions and maintain balance in editorial deliberations.
He recalled that Omonijo attended an Editorial Board meeting the week before his death, during which he was assigned two editorial topics to write about.
“We shall never forget you, Reverend,” Omatseye said.
Funeral Arrangements to Be Announced
The Nation reported that details of Omonijo’s funeral would be announced by his family at a later date.
His death has been acknowledged by the Diocese of Lagos West and colleagues at The Nation, where he spent much of his later journalism career.
