Sir Ademola Adetula, the veteran journalist and media administrator from Owo in Ondo State, passed away recently at the age of 74. He was widely respected for his professionalism, simple lifestyle, and dedication to clean, balanced reporting.
Many who worked with him still recall his strict approach to journalism. He insisted that every story must be fair, well-sourced, and written in clear language. At the Herald Newspapers and later at Owena Press, he left a strong mark on both the editorial and administrative sides of the media business.
Our paths crossed in 1995 when he employed me as a young reporter at THE HOPE Newspapers. It was my first proper job. Even then, he saw something in me and took a personal interest in my growth. He was not just a boss but a mentor who wanted me to build a solid career rather than float from one freelance gig to another.
Years later, when I grew tired of working in a government-owned newspaper and wanted to resign for a private media house in Lagos, Adetula calmly advised against it. After I insisted, he finally accepted my resignation letter but did something I never expected. He asked me to kneel, prayed over me, and asked God to one day bring me back to head the very same newspaper I was leaving.
That prayer came to pass in October 2024 when Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa appointed me as Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of Owena Press Limited, the same organisation Adetula once led. His words spoken 27 years earlier had finally been fulfilled.
As his burial rites begin this week in Akure, I join his family, friends, and the media community in mourning the loss of a disciplined journalist, a community leader, and a man whose quiet faith and foresight touched many lives.
