Kwara NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel Loses Member, Unilorin VC Mourns

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

The Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kwara State Council, yesterday expressed deep sorrow over the passing of one of its members, Mr. Saka Laro, a reporter with News Direct Newspaper.

Laro died last Tuesday after a brief illness, and has since been buried according to Islamic rites.

In a statement jointly issued in Ilorin and signed by the Chapel Chairman, Abdulhakeem Garba, and Secretary, Kayode Abdulazeez, it said: “The union extends its heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the late journalist, the Daudu Agaka family in Ilorin West Local Government Area, and the entire NUJ family in Kwara State over the painful loss.”

The statement described Laro as a thoroughbred professional, who distinguished himself with humility, professionalism, and admirable leadership qualities throughout his career.

“The chapel prays for the peaceful repose of our late colleague’s soul and urges his family to find comfort in the legacy he leaves behind as a calm, dedicated, and principled journalist whose contributions will not be forgotten,” the statement read.

Meanwhile, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, has expressed profound sadness over the death of the Kwara State Correspondent of the News Direct Newspaper, Mr. Saka Laaro.

In a statement signed by the university’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Kunle Akogun, Prof. Egbewole described the late Laro as an outstanding and well-trained journalist.

He recalled the several contributions of the departed journalist and his publication to the promotion of peace and understanding between the university and members of the public.

Prof. Egbewole sympathised with the leadership and members of the Correspondents Chapel of the Kwara State Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) on the loss of this distinguished member.

He also commiserated with the management and staff of the News Direct Newspaper as well as the family, friends and colleagues of the late journalist.

 Prof. Egbewole prayed to Allah to forgive the shortcomings of the late Laro and rest his soul in Aljanat Fridaouz. He also prayed to Allah to console his wife and children.