The national leadership and the Lagos State chapter of Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria, MMPN, have described Alhaji Kola Animashaun as a colossus who bestrode the firmament of Nigerian media landscape.
The tribute is contained in a message of condolence by the group over the death of Animashaun.
Animashaun died on Thursday at the age of 80.
The group commiserated with “the family of the iconic journalist, Alhaji Kola Animashaun who transited on Thursday, May 30, 2019 (Ramadan 25, 1440 A.H) at the ripe age of 80,” the group said.
The group said further: “Alhaji Animashaun bestrode the firmament of Nigerian media landscape as a colossus and inspired in us the virtues of dedication, excellence and forthrightness in journalism. An icon of our age, he played a frontline role in the formation and sustainability of our association.”
He was described as a warm and welcoming person who had a lasting impression at first encounter with anybody.
The statement signed by the group’s National President, Alhaji Abdurrahman Balogun and Lagos State Chairman, Alhaji Kabir Alaba Garba, reads in part: “His skill as a journalist and public opinion moulder shone brightly in his weekly column, Voice of Reason in the Vanguard, as his style as simple as it is, is very compelling, making journalism attractive for us as an influential calling.
“Alhaji Animashaun will be remembered for many giants in journalism that he mentored to prominence.
“In his death, the nation has lost a true voice of reason, who intervenes with his lucid and informed commentaries at critical times in the life of the nation.
“It is not too much if we celebrate his life and times as a nationalist or nation builder.
“We are comforted that our doyen in journalism departed on a beautiful note, in the glorious month of Ramadan and during the last ten days when Muslims globally become more dedicated in ibaadaat in the search for the night of majesty – Lailatulqadr. In this, we say alhamdulillah for a gracious transition!
“As we pray for the entire family that Allah gives them the fortitude to bear his passage, Inna lillahi wa Inna ilaehi raajiuna.”