‘An outstanding journalist,’ Information Minister mourns Tribune’s Leon Usigbe

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has expressed sorrow over the passing of Dr Leon Usigbe, the Abuja Bureau Chief of Tribune Newspaper, describing him as one of Nigeria’s finest media minds.

In a condolence message issued on Saturday, the Minister said the news of Usigbe’s sudden death came as a profound shock, noting that his contributions to journalism and national development were marked by integrity, depth, and an unflinching determination to the public good.

“Dr. Usigbe was an outstanding journalist, a highly cerebral professional, and a shining light within the Nigerian media landscape. As a pen-wielding advocate for democracy and national development, he brought intellectual rigour, insight, and balance to his reporting,” Idris stated

The Minister particularly recalled Usigbe’s impactful presence at the Federal Ministry’s regular ministerial press briefings and his consistent participation in media engagements at the Presidential Villa.

According to Idris, his thought-provoking interventions helped shape national discourse and foster a more informed society.

“His death is a monumental loss, not only to Tribune Newspaper and the journalism profession but also to the entire nation,” he said, noting that Usigbe earned widespread respect across the media, government, and the public through his intellect and clarity of purpose.

Extending his condolences to the management and staff of Tribune, the government and people of Edo State, and Usigbe’s family and colleagues, the Minister prayed for comfort and strength for all who mourn his passing.

“May his soul rest in perfect peace,” he concluded.

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