By: Mandy Park
The remains of veteran journalist and co-founder of Newswatch magazine, Yakubu Mohammed, have been laid to rest in his hometown of Ologba, Anyigba, in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The burial ceremony, which took place on Thursday at about 11am, was conducted in accordance with Islamic rites and led by the Chief Imam,
Alhaji Musa, alongside the Imam of Ologba II, Mallam Dauda Omeje.
In his sermon, the Chief Imam urged mourners to reflect on the inevitability of death and the importance of living purposeful lives marked by peace and service to humanity. He described death as the ultimate destiny of all mankind, stressing that how one prepares for it is what truly matters.
The Imam paid glowing tribute to the late Mohammed, describing him as a selfless and devoted Muslim who lived for the service of his community and remained steadfast in his faith.
He noted that Mohammed was deeply committed to the development of his people and never compromised his religious values.
Speaking on the sidelines of the ceremony, Mr. Joshua Edegbo, a first cousin of the deceased, described Mohammed as a community leader who made significant contributions to the development of Anyigba and its environs.
He said the late journalist facilitated employment opportunities for many youths and provided scholarships to several young people across Dekina Local Government Area and Igala land.
Edegbo also recalled that Mohammed played a key role in his own career, having secured him employment at New Nigerian newspapers and later at Newswatch magazine.
He noted that the large turnout at the burial was a testament to Mohammed’s impact and the respect he commanded during his lifetime.
The funeral attracted religious and traditional leaders, family members, colleagues, and fellow journalists who gathered to pay their last respects.
Yakubu Mohammed died on Wednesday at the age of 75.
Born on April 4, 1950, Mohammed earned a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism.
He attended St. Joseph’s Primary School, Ayangba (1958–1964), Government Secondary School, Okene (1965–1969), the University of Lagos (1972–1975), and the Glasgow College of Technology, Scotland (1978–1979).
Beyond journalism, Mohammed also ventured into politics and was a governorship aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during the 2011 Kogi State governorship election.
