The ancient community of Apa-Agila came to a standstill on Friday as family members, dignitaries, media professionals and admirers gathered to bid farewell to renowned journalist and elder statesman, Chief Dan Agbese, whose life and career were widely described as symbols of truth, courage and public service.

The funeral service, held at Saint Rose Venerini Catholic Church, drew tributes from government officials, political figures and colleagues who reflected on the late media icon’s influence on journalism and national discourse.

Representing the government and people of Benue State, Deputy Governor Sam Ode described Agbese as more than a journalist, calling him “a symbol of intellectual courage and integrity” whose contributions would endure across generations. He announced that the Benue Printing and Publishing House has been renamed in honour of the late media veteran in recognition of his legacy.

Also paying tribute, Benue South senatorial aspirant on the platform of the African Democratic Congress, David Olofu, described Agbese’s death as a profound loss to both the state and the nation, noting that his commitment to truth remained steadfast even in difficult times.

In an emotional remark, his nephew and lawmaker representing Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency, Philip Agbese, said the late journalist’s legacy could fill volumes but was defined not by titles, rather by values of integrity, humility and compassion. He added that Agbese inspired many through his wisdom, generosity and mentorship.

Delivering the homily, Bishop Michael Apochi urged mourners to emulate the virtues exemplified by the deceased, describing his life as a reflection of righteousness and moral conviction.

Agbese’s journalism career spanned decades and was marked by distinction. He served as Editor-in-Chief of Newswatch magazine and later as General Manager of Radio Benue, roles through which he helped shape professional standards in Nigerian media and mentored younger journalists.

Speakers at the ceremony noted that beyond his public accomplishments, he remained deeply connected to his roots as a community leader, adviser and role model.

Chief Dan Agbese was laid to rest amid tributes celebrating a life many described as devoted to truth, integrity and service, with mourners affirming that his influence would continue to resonate in Nigeria’s media and civic space for generations.

Capital Times News is pleased to announce that Tommy Odemwingie, a former features editor of The Guardian, has joined the online news outfit as chair of the editorial board.

Starting out as a producer at the Ibadan zonal station of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Mr Odemwingie also worked for the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Benin in sports and news, before he joined The Guardian in its early days as a staff correspondent, becoming its features editor.

Mr Odemwingie also brings to CTN deep knowledge of development, having worked for such international organisations as WHO, UNICEF, UNODC and UNFPA, as well as programnes of bilateral agencies, such as USAID, UKAID.

Notable for his writing and issues-focused advocacy skills, and incisive analyses of politics, Mr Odemwingie obtained a BA in English from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), Ile-Ife and earned the British and Commonwealth Office (Chevening) scholarship to obtain a Master’s degree in Rural Social Development at the University of Reading, England.

Several journalists were injured on Thursday following a road accident along the Bauchi–Yelwan Duguri Road while on official assignment to cover the commissioning of projects by the North East Development Commission (NEDC).

Those involved include correspondents of Channels Television, African Independent Television (AIT), the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), as well as members of the Correspondents’ Chapel and staff of the Bauchi State Television Authority (BATV) and Bauchi Radio Corporation (BRC).

The journalists were part of a media team covering the commissioning of NEDC projects by the Minister of State for Regional Development and the Managing Director of the commission when the accident occurred.

Although the crash was described as severe, no fatalities were recorded.

The injured journalists were rushed to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), Bauchi, where they are currently receiving medical treatment.

Hospital sources confirmed that some of the victims sustained fractures and other injuries but are responding to treatment.

Reacting to the incident, the Bauchi State Government expressed sympathy with the injured journalists and their families.

Governor Bala Mohammed, through a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, said the government was monitoring the situation and working with medical authorities to ensure adequate care for those affected.

The government also acknowledged the risks journalists face in the course of covering official activities and assured media organisations that support would be provided until the injured reporters fully recover.

The cause of the accident has not yet been officially disclosed.