IPI Nigeria Mourns Dotun Oladipo
….Describes Him as Committed Press Freedom Warrior
The Nigerian chapter of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) has mourned the death of veteran journalist, publisher and press freedom advocate, Mr Dotun Oladipo, describing him as a committed professional and dependable colleague.
Oladipo, the founder and publisher of The Eagle Online, died on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, in Lagos.
His death was confirmed in the early hours of Wednesday, August 26. He was 56.
In a condolence statement signed by the President of IPI Nigeria, Musikilu Mojeed, the Board of Trustees, National Executive Committee and entire membership of the institute expressed deep sadness over the death of Oladipo, whom they described as an accomplished journalist, entrepreneur and passionate defender of press freedom.
IPI Nigeria said Oladipo was highly dependable, resourceful, professional, amiable and deeply committed to the journalism profession, qualities which earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues.
According to the institute, his dedication and “can-do spirit” led to his appointment as Chairman of its Programmes Committee in 2024, a responsibility he handled with enthusiasm and diligence.
The institute noted that despite the demands of running The Eagle Online, Oladipo consistently made time to undertake assignments entrusted to him by IPI Nigeria.
He was said to have played a significant role in the success of the institute’s 2025 Annual General Meeting and Conference and also served as a major pillar of the 2026 AGM and Conference Planning Committee.
IPI Nigeria recalled that earlier in August, Oladipo travelled from Lagos to Abeokuta to represent the institute at an important event, despite having another long-scheduled engagement in Lagos on the same day.
The institute said the gesture demonstrated his extraordinary commitment to the organisation and the journalism profession.
At 56, Oladipo leaves behind a significant legacy in Nigeria’s media industry, having worked with leading publications including Newswatch, The Punch, The Compass, Nigerian Tribune and The Sun, before founding The Eagle Online about 15 years ago.
IPI Nigeria said his death was a profound loss to his family, colleagues, the Nigerian media community and the broader struggle for press freedom and professional journalism.
“IPI Nigeria has lost a dependable colleague, a passionate advocate and a trusted friend,” the statement said.
The institute extended its condolences to Oladipo’s family, colleagues, friends and the entire staff of The Eagle Online, praying that God would grant them the strength and fortitude to bear the loss.
“May the gentle soul of our dear brother, colleague and friend rest in perfect peace.
“Adieu, Dotun,” the statement concluded.
