The late former Publicity Secretary of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) Ogun State, Comrade Tunde Oladunjoye, was on Tuesday honoured at a one-year memorial lecture organised by committee of friends.
The lecture themed, “The Pen, The Truth and The Burden of Responsibility: Preserving the Legacy of Ethical Journalism”, is was held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Abeokuta, the state capital.
The speakers and other stakeholders at the well-attended programme described the deceased, a renowned journalist and human rights activist, as well as journalist-turned-politician, as a symbol of ethical journalism and integrity.
The guest lecturer, Rt Hon Remmy Hazzan, a former Deputy Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, described journalism as a sacred trust that goes beyond headlines and deadlines, stressing that it represents a commitment to truth and public accountability.
“We gather not merely to remember a man, but to reflect on a calling that transcends ink and paper. Journalism, at its finest, is the relentless pursuit of truth unclouded by bias, fear or vested interests’, Hazzan said.
He emphasised that the deceased embodied the ideals of the profession, pointing out that his life and career serve as a reminder that the pen is a powerful instrument capable of shaping society and influencing public opinion.
“The pen is not just an instrument of expression, but a tool of accountability and societal transformation. With such power comes great responsibility. Ethical journalism is not about sensationalism, but about accuracy, fairness and courage’, he said.
Hazzan stressed that journalists must remain steadfast even in the face of intimidation or inducement, noting that the true test of professionalism lies in the ability to report truthfully despite pressure.
The guest lecturer, who flew in from Balyesa State for the event, highlighted the challenges posed by the rise of social media, warning that misinformation and disinformation now spread rapidly, often overshadowing verified facts.
“In an era where anyone with a smartphone can publish information, the role of trained journalists becomes even more critical. Journalists must serve as custodians of credibility, providing clarity amidst confusion,” he added.
Hazzan, drawing from global and local examples, noted that ethical journalism often requires sacrifice, courage and a strong sense of duty, urging practitioners not to compromise standards for convenience or personal gain.
The former lawmaker maintained that Oladunjoye stood out as a professional who upheld these values, describing him as a diligent and principled journalist who ensured that facts were verified and reports balanced.
The Chairman of the Planning Committee, Prince Dimeji Kayode-Adedeji, earlier in his welcome speech explained that the memorial lecture was initiated by close friends of the deceased to honour his legacy and sustain his impact.
The Committee Chairman recalled that Oladunjoye died a year ago in a London hospital after a brief illness and was buried in his hometown of Ijebu-Itele, Ogun State, describing his death as a bitter pill to swallow.
Kayode-Adedeji described the late All Progressives Congress(APC) chieftain as a renowned journalist, politician and human rights activist whose contributions remain indelible.
‘No doubt the death of Tunde, a renowned and proactive journalist, politician and human rights activist was a bitter pill to swallow, having left at the age of 58. However, we cannot query God who knows best’, he stated.
‘The deceased came, saw and conquered, and it is on record that he played his part before death took him, away, and his legacy remains reference point in all ramifications. I will also use this occasion to console the family and all those left behind’, Kayode-Adedeji added
‘I want to profusely appreciate all donors for the gestures and all those who took time to join us in honouring our friend, brother and associate. God will continue to bless you abundantly with good health and long life’
‘Let me explain that the decision to organise this programme was reached by some friends who took it upon themselves and as individuals, contributed to make it happen. Tunde Oladunjoye is gone, but he remains in our heart, and we shall continue to honour him in death, and this has been designed as annual event, as we pray for his soul to continue to rest in perfect peace.’
He appreciated all stakeholders for their contributions to the success of the ceremony, and specifically gave kudos to the committee members, including Barrister Solomon Bankole, Olori Toyin Banjo, Comrade Sunday Nwaobi, Otunba Taofeek Lawal and Comrade Olumide Igbodipe
The founder of Penpushing Media assured that the lecture is going to be annual event, stressing that Oladunjoye is gone, and shall continue to be honoured in death, and prayed for his soul to continue to rest in perfect peace.
The General Manager of Sweet FM, Eddy Aina, in his goodwill message described Oladunjoye as a compassionate and courageous individual who spoke truth to power and showed deep concern for the welfare of colleagues, particularly widows and families of deceased journalists.
The veteran journalist noted that the late journalist was instrumental in initiatives aimed at supporting vulnerable members of the journalism community, adding that his generosity and boldness would not be forgotten.
The family representative, Olori Toyin Banjo said the ceremony was not just a memorial—it has been a powerful reminder of a life well lived, a life that touched many, and a legacy that continues to speak even in his absence.
‘On behalf of the family of our dearly loved father, Comrade Tunde Oladunjoye, and also from the depth of my personal heart as one who was privileged to share a close bond with him, I stand here today with immense gratitude,’ Banjo stated.
“Today has not just been a memorial—it has been a powerful reminder of a life well lived, a life that touched many, and a legacy that continues to speak even in his absence’, Banjo emphasised.
‘We sincerely thank every one of you who made the time to be here today. Your presence means more than words can fully express. In a world where time is precious, your decision to honour comrade Tunde’s memory with us speaks volumes of the impact he had on your lives’, she added.
‘To our speakers and contributors, thank you for your heartfelt words, your honesty, and for helping us relive beautiful memories. You have comforted our hearts and reminded us that though he is no longer physically present, his values, wisdom, and love remain with us’ the family stated.
‘To friends, extended family, colleagues, and well-wishers—those who travelled from near and far, those who supported in various ways, and even those who could not be here but sent their love—we say a very big thank you’.
‘As a friend, I cannot stand here without saying this: Uncle Tunde was more than a friend—he was a mentor, a confidant, a source of wisdom, and a man whose presence brought warmth and direction. Losing him was painful, but gatherings like this remind us that his life was full, meaningful, and impactful. To the family, thank you for allowing me to stand with you and represent you today. It is an honour I do not take lightly’, she added.
The ruling All Progressives Congress(APC) was fully represented at the ceremony, with the delegation led by Deputy Chairman of the party, Chief James Dina, as well as National President Committee of Defence for Human Rights, Comrade Debo Adeniran was equally in attendance alongside his members.
