Newswatch unveils Dele Giwa’s Granite Journalism as Amuka, Obaigbena, Osoba, Ogunbiyi, others recall moments with late journalist
By Vivian Aghanu and Mercy Ajekigbe
Journalists and colleagues of the late Dele Giwa gathered Monday at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) for the presentation and launch of Dele Giwa’s Granite Journalism, a collection of his writings published in the Daily Times, Sunday Concord and Newswatch Magazine. The book was edited by veteran journalist and co-founder of Newswatch Magazine, Ray Ekpu.
Giwa, one of Nigeria’s prominent journalists and a pioneering voice in investigative journalism, was killed on October 19, 1986, when a parcel bomb delivered to his residence in Ikeja exploded in his study, ending the life of one of the country’s most compelling writers.
Chairman of the occasion, Sam Amuka, who also is the publisher of Vanguard newspapers, said Giwa’s influence had endured four decades after his death, demonstrating that his contributions to journalism had not been erased by his assassination.
He urged Nigerians to read the book, describing Giwa as a legendary journalist who spoke truth to power and possessed a sharp pen, a fierce intellect and exceptional writing skills.
Amuka also recalled Giwa’s belief in the effectiveness of public protests, urging citizens to remain engaged in demanding accountability from government.
A former governor of Ogun State and ex-Managing Director of Daily Times, Olusegun Osoba, said Giwa raised the standard of journalism in Nigeria through incisive writing, investigative reporting and fearless commentary.
He encouraged younger journalists to study Giwa’s writing, particularly his storytelling, attention to detail and commitment to holding people in power accountable.
Prince Nduka Obaigbena, publisher of ThisDay newspaper and chairman of ARISE News reflected on the circumstances surrounding Giwa’s death.
He said although Giwa had been killed, his influence and contributions to journalism would endure.
“You can kill him, but he will not die,” Obaigbena said, highlighting the lasting impact of Giwa’s work and ideals.
Chairman of Troyka Holdings Limited Biodun Shobanjo, who recounted being present when Giwa passed away, described him as an extraordinary individual whose influence extended beyond his professional achievements.
“For me, Dele can never die,” Shobanjo said.
He further described Giwa as an exceptional personality, saying, “He was an enigma. He was larger than life. He was journalism personified.”
Shobanjo also urged those who attended the event to take pride in Giwa’s life and achievements, remembering him not only as a journalist but also as a friend, husband, father and colleague.
A former managing director of Daily Times, Yemi Ogunbiyi, in his remarks, recalled meeting Giwa in 1975 while teaching at the University of Lagos College of Medicine. He described their relationship as a close friendship that lasted for years.
Recollecting an experience that demonstrated Giwa’s concern and love for others, Ogunbiyi said Giwa once took him to the hospital when he became seriously ill and signed as his brother to facilitate emergency surgery.
He explained that his memories of Giwa went beyond the journalist’s professional reputation, emphasising the personal bond they shared.
Ogunbiyi also stressed the importance of ensuring that younger generations of journalists learn about Giwa’s contributions to the profession.
He expressed the hope that the newly launched book would be distributed to journalism schools across the country.
“We will then make sure that this book goes to every school of journalism in this country,” Ogunbiyi said.
Other speakers at the event included Dr Dokun Adeleke, one of the doctors who attended to Giwa at the Foundation Medical Centre before his death, recounted the journalist’s final moments in the hospital.
Adeleke recalled that he was on duty when, at about 12:13 pm, a Kombi bus drove into the hospital compound. Someone rushed in, shouting that the vehicle was carrying Dele Giwa, who was injured by a bomb explosion. At first, Adeleke thought the announcement was a joke.
But when he went outside, the reality of the situation became clear. He saw Fumi, who was bleeding and had sustained a cut, while Giwa was being carried under a blanket or white sheet. The medical team immediately rushed him into the emergency room.
Despite the severity of his injuries, the endearing father asked after Aisha,, his child, explaining that she had been crawling towards the study when the incident occurred.
Although the medical team attempted to stabilise him, Giwa’s condition remained critical.
Describing the injuries, Adeleke said he sometimes felt that Giwa’s death might have spared him a life affected by the severity of his injuries.
He recalled Giwa repeatedly expressing his desire to live and asking after his wife.
Adeleke said he tried to reassure him that she was somewhere nearby, hoping to comfort him.
But the efforts were unsuccessful. At about 1pm., Giwa died.
