President Bola Tinubu has used the 80th birthday of veteran journalist Oyinlade “Ladbone” Bonuola to highlight the enduring importance of professional journalism, editorial independence and public accountability in Nigeria’s democracy.
In a tribute issued on Sunday, October 25, Tinubu described the former Managing Director of The Guardian as a journalist whose career had demonstrated that the media’s influence extended far beyond the newsroom.
The President said Bonuola’s commitment to truth, accuracy, fairness and the public interest had helped strengthen journalism’s role in holding institutions accountable and keeping citizens informed.
Bonuola began his journalism career at the Daily Times in February 1971 as a trainee sub-editor. He rose through the ranks before joining The Guardian in 1982 as a pioneer editor, later becoming the newspaper’s Managing Director, a position he held until 1999.
He subsequently co-founded the defunct Comet newspaper, where he served as Managing Director, and later headed the Nigerian Compass newspaper in the same capacity.
Tinubu said Bonuola’s professional journey reflected the value of experience, discipline and editorial courage at a time when journalism was central to the country’s democratic development.
The President recalled Bonuola’s Daily Times column, Caught Out, describing it as a widely read feature that attracted the attention of journalists, students and members of the public.
He also praised Bonuola’s leadership at The Guardian and his role in establishing The Comet, which later became The Nation, saying both reflected his understanding of the press as an institution capable of shaping public thought and promoting national progress.
Tinubu said journalism should not be limited to reporting events but should also help citizens understand issues, challenge abuses of power and preserve the truth for future generations.
“Your commitment to accuracy, fairness, integrity, and public accountability is a value that remains integral to the media’s responsibility to inform citizens, hold public institutions accountable, and strengthen democracy,” the President said.
He further commended Bonuola for mentoring younger journalists and contributing to the growth of Nigeria’s media profession.
“Your life and career remind us that journalism’s enduring value lies not merely in reporting events but in shaping ideas, nurturing informed citizens, and preserving the truth for future generations,” Tinubu said.
The President, on behalf of his family, the Federal Government and the Nigerian people, wished Bonuola good health, peace and fulfilment as he marked the milestone.
He expressed hope that the veteran journalist’s example would continue to guide and inspire future generations of media practitioners.
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