President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Dr. Leon Usigbe, a journalist with The Tribune Newspapers and a respected member of the State House Press Corps. Usigbe, who served as the Abuja Bureau Chief for the newspaper, died on Friday night after a brief illness.
The President’s condolence message was shared on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. In the statement, Tinubu praised Usigbe as a veteran correspondent known for his dedication to truth, balance, and ethical journalism, earning him wide respect across the media, among public officials, and readers nationwide.
Highlighting Usigbe’s role in Nigeria’s democratic process, the President noted that his insightful reporting and calm demeanor helped strengthen democratic governance. His work played a vital part in keeping the public informed about the inner workings of the presidency and government.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues at The Tribune, and the entire State House Press Corps. May Almighty God grant his soul eternal rest and comfort all who mourn this great loss,” President Tinubu said.
Similarly, Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris expressed profound sadness over Usigbe’s death. In his condolence message, the minister described the loss as heartbreaking and a major blow to Nigeria’s media industry.
“I was deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of Dr. Leon Habby Usigbe, Abuja Bureau Chief of Tribune Newspaper,” Idris said. He praised Usigbe as “an outstanding journalist, a highly intellectual professional, and a shining light in the Nigerian media.”
The minister highlighted Usigbe’s integrity, dedication to the public good, and his role as a strong advocate for democracy and national development. Idris also recalled Usigbe’s thoughtful contributions during media briefings at the Federal Ministry of Information and the Presidential Villa, which helped bridge the gap between government and the press.
“His interventions elevated the quality of discussions and promoted a more informed and engaged society,” Idris added.
Describing Usigbe’s death as a monumental loss to both the media and the nation, Idris extended heartfelt condolences to the journalist’s family, The Tribune’s management and staff, the people of Edo State (Usigbe’s home state), and all who knew him.
“May God comfort those left behind and grant them strength to bear this irreplaceable loss. May his soul rest in perfect peace,” the minister concluded.
Dr. Leon Usigbe was known for his careful, thorough reporting and his quiet but significant presence within the State House press community.