He was not just journalist but hero of democracy – Kefas laments Adaji’s death 

Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State has expressed shock over the sudden death of veteran journalist and media icon, Chief Ben Adaji, describing his passing as a great loss to his family, the journalism profession, and the state at large.
Adaji, who before his death was the Taraba state correspondent of Ajazira newspaper died on Saturday at his country home in Abo-Ojikpadala, Imane District of Olamaboro Local Government Area, Kogi State.

In a condolence message signed by the governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communications, Emmanuel Bello, Kefas eulogised the late journalist as a courageous and principled media practitioner who remained committed to the ethics of journalism throughout his distinguished career.

“The loss of Chief Ben Adaji is a painful one, not only for his immediate family but also for the entire media community in Taraba state. He was a forthright journalist who stayed true to the tenets of the profession and played a vital role in promoting free speech through his bold reporting and unwavering professionalism,”Kefas said.

The governor noted that Adaji made significant contributions to journalism, earning widespread respect for his ethical reporting, integrity, and dedication to mentoring younger journalists.

Until his death, Adaji served as the Taraba State correspondent of Al Jazeera Nigeria Newspaper. Over the course of his career, he worked with several notable media organisations, including The News Magazine, The Nation, and National Trail.

Governor Kefas also recalled that the late journalist once served as Chairman of the Taraba State Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), where he championed professional excellence and press freedom.

Beyond journalism, Adaji was a traditional title holder, serving as the Abujah of Oda Ojiji Imane in Imane community of Olamaboro Local Government Area, Kogi State. His reign was widely acknowledged for promoting cultural heritage and community development.

Reflecting on Adaji’s legacy, the governor paid tribute to the courage he consistently displayed in speaking truth to power, particularly during Nigeria’s military era, when he often faced confrontations with authorities in pursuit of truth and accountability.

“Chief Ben Adaji was a hero of democracy and an outstanding example of journalistic excellence. His contributions to the development of journalism and the advancement of democratic values will never be forgotten,” governor Kefas stated.

He was not just journalist but hero of democracy – Kefas laments Adaji’s death