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The Guild of Online Business Publishers (GOCOP) has expressed sadness over the death of its former president, Dotun Oladipo, publisher of The Eagle Online.
This is contained in a statement by GOCOP Publicity Secretary, Kemi Yesufu, released in Lagos on Wednesday.
The statement said Oladipo died on Tuesday, Aug. 25, at the age of 56.
He said Oladipo’s death was a loss to the GOCOP and the broader Nigerian media community.
Oladipo served as GOCOP president from 2017 to 2021 and helped shape the guild during its formative years.
”Oladipo brings extensive traditional media experience to online publishing, having worked as a journalist and editor before founding The Eagle Online.
”He was among the publishers who recognized the need for online publishers to come together, share ideas and build a stronger professional community.
“His tenure coincided with the rapid growth of online publishing, as new news platforms emerged and social media transformed news distribution,” he said.
The statement quotes GOCOP Chairman Danlami Nmodu describing Oladapo’s death as painful for the guild.
“Dotun played an important role in the development of GOCOP. He led the guild for four years,” Nmodu said.
Nmodu said Oladipo’s contribution to establishing online publishers as an important part of the Nigerian media industry will always be remembered.
He said Oladipo brought his experience as a journalist and editor to leading the Guild.
“Dotun understood journalism and he understood the business of publishing. He was passionate about the place of online media in Nigeria,” he said.
The president said Oladipo dedicated his time to the growth of GOCOP and continued to take an interest in the association’s affairs even after leaving office.
He added that Oladipo’s journalism career began long before online publishing became a major source of news in Nigeria.
The statement said Oladipo’s experience in mainstream media has given him a solid foundation in reporting, editing and newsroom management.
It is stated that Oladipo later became editor of The Eagle Online, joining journalists who moved to digital publishing as use of the Internet transformed news consumption.
”Oladipo maintained relationships with publishers across the country and actively participated in the association’s affairs.
”GOCOP expressed its condolences to Oladipo’s family, The Eagle Online’s management and staff, friends and colleagues in the media industry.
“GOCOP will work with his family and collaborators on projects to honor his memory,” the statement said.
