The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, says the death of veteran journalist and Newswatch co-founder Chief Dan Agbese is a major loss to Nigeria’s journalism community and to everyone who values truth and courageous reporting.

In a condolence message released by his media adviser, Eseme Eyiboh, Akpabio said he received the news of Agbese’s death with deep sadness, describing him as a media icon whose work consistently defended the public interest.

He said Agbese belonged to a generation of journalists who helped define an era and set a high standard for ethical and fearless journalism in the country. According to him, Agbese devoted his career to promoting truth, accountability, and press freedom, leaving behind writings that shaped national debate and strengthened democracy.

Akpabio extended condolences to the Agbese family, his colleagues, and the wider media community, noting that his passing leaves a gap that will be felt across newsrooms nationwide.

He also sympathised with the Nigerian Union of Journalists and the Nigerian Guild of Editors, saying the loss is shared by all who believe in the vital role of the press in nation-building.

He prayed for the repose of Agbese’s soul and for strength for his family and the media industry at large.