The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kwara State Council, and its Correspondents’ Chapel have been plunged into mourning following the death of veteran journalist and News Direct correspondent, Alhaji Saka Laaro.
Consequently, NUJ has postponed its monthly Congress, earlier scheduled for Wednesday, 28 May, to Thursday, 29 May, 2025.
Announcing the development, the Council Secretary, Mahmood Olayinka Alaya, said the postponement was a mark of respect for the deceased, whom he described as a respected elder and committed unionist.
“In honour of his memory and contributions to the union and journalism in general, we are observing today as a moment of reflection and mourning,” the statement read.
Members were also urged to share and circulate official condolence messages issued by the Council and the Correspondents’ Chapel as a collective tribute to the late journalist.
In a separate condolence message, the Correspondents’ Chapel of the NUJ described Alhaji Saka Laaro as a thoroughbred professional who stood out for his humility, admirable leadership, and unwavering dedication to journalism.
“Mr Laaro’s contributions to journalism and his unwavering commitment to truth and professionalism will not be forgotten. He left behind a legacy of integrity and excellence.”,the statement said.
The statement, jointly signed by Chapel Chairman Abdulhakeem Garba and Secretary Kayode Abdulazeez, extended heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, the Daudu Agaka family in Ilorin West Local Government Area, and the broader NUJ community.
“The chapel prays for the peaceful repose of our late colleague’s soul and urges his family to find comfort in the legacy he leaves behind as a calm, dedicated, and principled journalist whose contributions will not be forgotten,” it stated.
