In a statement made public on Tuesday, Idris hailed Agbese as “a titan of truth whose legacy formed the foundation of enlightened public discourse,” adding that his co-founding of the trailblazing Newswatch magazine, became a defining institution in the nation’s media landscape.
He noted that Agbese championed courage, intellectual integrity, and an unwavering commitment to press freedom, core principles of a vibrant democracy. Through his incisive No Holds Barred column and a lifetime of work, Idris said, Agbese held power to account and dedicated himself to nation-building.
“Agbese’s passing comes at a time when the Tinubu administration is deeply committed to fostering the very principles he fought for – an expanded democratic space, robust citizen engagement, and free speech,” the minister added.
Idris extended heartfelt condolences to Agbese’s family, colleagues, the media fraternity and prayed for the soul of the deceased.
