Yenagoa—Journalists in Bayelsa State on Sunday mourned the passing of veteran broadcaster, Mr. Benaebi Eselemo who died at the age of 76 years.
He died on the 15th of December, 2023 after a prolonged illness.
Mangrovepen.ng gathered that the late Eselemo started working with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) in Benin City, Edo State for 27 years between 1976 and 2003. He was later transfered to Bayelsa State as Manager, News between 2003 and 2009.
He also worked with the Federal Polytechnic, Ekeowe as its Public Relations Officer in 2010.
Eselemo popularly known as Cycle won laurels and accolades from his contributions to journalism in Edo, Bayelsa, Niger Delta and Nigeria at large.
He won the NUJ award as Best Reporter of NTA Benin in 1995, Nigeria Media Merit Award Benin City in 1997, 1999, among other awards.
In a condolence message signed by the Chairman of the NUJ in Bayelsa State, Comrade Samuel Mammangi and Secretary, Comrade Ogio Ipigansi the union expressed shock over the demise of Eselemo, describing it as a big blow to mordern day broadcasting in the state.
“His death is a big blow to us but even more so to you the immediate family as he departed at a time that the childhen and other family members still need his fatherly love and wise counsel.
“Late Benaebi Eselemo was a Journalist per Excellent who ply his trade with the Nigeria Television Authority NTA). He will be greatly missed by all journalists and any one who came in contact with him.
“We urge the family to be strong just as we pray that the Almighty God grants them the strength to bear this irredeemable loss. May his gentle soul find nest in the bosom of the Lord,” the message reads in part.