NUJ FCT Council Honours Late Chairman, Osadebamwen, Vows To Stand By His Children
By Sunday Etuka
The Federal Capital Territory Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) gathered on Monday evening for a memorial service celebrating the life of Comrade Patrick Osadebamwen, a former council chairman and respected media practitioner, with union leaders pledging continued support for the three children he left behind.
Speaking, Chairman of Council, Comrade Grace Ike, described Patrick’s passing as, above all, a loss for his immediate family, and encouraged colleagues to reflect on the contributions he made to journalism throughout his career.
Council members recalled his extensive media career, including stints with Union Newspaper, Core TV, The Nigerian Tribune and Kaftan TV, as well as his time leading the NUJ FCT Council.
“Leadership within the NUJ comes with its own demands and challenges,” Comrade Ike said, noting that Patrick had contributed meaningfully to the Union’s affairs and development during his tenure.
The council called on members to honour his place in the history of both the FCT Council and the wider profession and reaffirmed the Union’s responsibility to support grieving families.
Officials said they had remained in close contact with Patrick’s family since learning of his death, mindful in particular of the three children now left in his absence.
Appreciation was extended to the Inspector General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and the FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Mohammed Sanusi, for their prompt assistance in evacuating Patrick’s remains.
The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Okokon Iniedu, was also commended for representing the IGP and conveying his condolences.
Comrade Ike urged members to check in on one another regularly and to nurture genuine bonds of friendship, telling colleagues that the memorial should renew their commitment to professional unity despite disagreements or changes in leadership.
“Positions are temporary, professional engagements come and go, and ultimately, what remains is the impact we make on the people and institutions we encounter,” she said.
The NUJ FCT Council offered condolences to Patrick’s family, friends and associates, praying for strength for those he left behind and eternal rest for his soul.
The National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, represented by National Secretary Comrade Achike Chude, joined other dignitaries in paying tribute to the late former chairman, praying that his soul rest in peace.
