Dotun Oladipo: Rasheed Bolarinwa Pays Tribute to Late Journalist, Media Entrepreneur

TRIBUTE —————

The Dotun Oladipo I Knew

By Rasheed Bolarinwa

The news of the passing of Dotun Oladipo hit me this morning with a profound sense of loss. Nigeria has lost a distinguished journalist, media entrepreneur, and advocate of ethical journalism. But beyond the public tributes and professional accolades, I have lost a friend, ally, confidant, and brother.

My relationship with Dotun dates back to the late 1990s when we were colleagues at The Punch newspapers. Even then, he stood out as a journalist of uncommon conviction – calm, principled, and deeply committed to the ideals of responsible journalism. We shared similar beliefs about the role of the media in society: to inform truthfully, act responsibly, and serve the public interest.

Our bond endured long after our paths diverged professionally. While I moved into corporate communications and banking, Dotun continued to distinguish himself in journalism, eventually founding The EagleOnline and rising to become President of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP). Our friendship grew even stronger during those years as we found ourselves working from different sides of the communication ecosystem but towards a common goal – promoting professionalism and protecting the integrity of both the media and corporate institutions.

As President of Association of Corporate Communication & Marketing Professionals in Banks (ACAMB) and Dotun as President of GOCOP, we became partners in progress. Together, we navigated difficult moments, particularly when unprofessional elements sought to undermine the banking industry through misinformation, exaggeration, and outright falsehoods. Dotun was often the voice of reason.

He understood the power of journalism, but equally appreciated the responsibility that came with it. More than once, he stepped in quietly to douse tensions during media crises and helped foster understanding where misunderstanding threatened to prevail.

I fondly remember visiting him at the EagleOnline office in Ogba. With characteristic pride and humility, he personally took me around the premises, sharing his vision and introducing me to members of his team. On that occasion, I also met his wife when she stopped by. It was a glimpse into the man behind the public figure – a devoted family man and an exceptionally warm host.

Dotun never stopped advocating for journalists and media organisations. At every GOCOP conference, he extended invitations to us and consistently urged corporate organisations not to turn their backs on credible media partners. He believed strongly in collaboration, mutual respect, and shared growth. In return, ACAMB always welcomed opportunities to engage with GOCOP and the wider media community.

I was privileged to celebrate his 50th birthday with him among his circle of friends six years ago in Lagos. We remained in touch thereafter, meeting regularly at conferences, seminars, and industry events. I often sought his counsel on media matters, drawing from his vast network and deep understanding of the profession. Not once did he decline a request for guidance or intervention. He was generous with his time, wisdom, and relationships.

Today, I mourn not just a former colleague but a trusted ally, a comrade, and a brother. His departure leaves a void that will be difficult to fill.

To his family, especially his beloved wife and children; to his brother, Tunde – my former classmate, journalism colleague, and banking associate; to the entire GOCOP family and the Nigerian media community, I extend my deepest condolences.

Dotun Oladipo lived a life of impact, friendship, service, and integrity. His footprints are indelible, his legacy enduring, and his memory will remain a source of inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.

__Rasheed Bolarinwa, a renowned PR/Strategic Communication architect, is the immediate Past President of ACAMB. He writes from Lagos __