Committee of friends honour Tunde Oladunjoye in death

The late former Publicity Secretary of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State, Comrade Tunde Oladunjoye, was on Tuesday honoured at a one-year memorial lecture organised by his committee of friends.

The lecture was themed: “The Pen, The Truth and The Burden of Responsibility: Preserving the Legacy of Ethical Journalism.”

It was held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Abeokuta, the Ogun 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.

Hazzan said: “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.”

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.

He added: “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.”

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.

He added: “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.”

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 during a brief illness and was buried in his hometown of Ijebu-Itele, Ogun State, describing the death as bitter pill to swallow.

Kayode-Adedeji described the late APC chieftain as a renowned journalist, politician, and human rights activist whose contributions remain indelible.

He said: ‘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 age of 58. 

“However, we cannot query God who knows best.

‘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 a reference point in all ramifications. 

“I will also use this occasion to console the family and all those left behind.

“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.