By Goodluck B Ikiebe.
The Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State has organized a maiden Essay Competition in memory of Dele Giwa.
The LG Chairman, Hon. Solomon Obomighie, who laid wreath at Dele Giwa’s grave in Ugbekpe Ekperi, on Wednesday, said the gesture was to nurture students in the field of Journalism.
The chairman lamented the absence of the renowned investigative Journalist, who was killed on October 19,1986 through a parcel bomb in Lagos during the administration of General Ibrahim Babangida.
According to Obomighie, Dele Giwa’s absence can not be replaced.
Our correspondent reports that at the occasion, Hon. Solomon Obomighie expressed emotional joy during his statement on a procession and laying of flowers on the grave of the deceased and thereafter,joined the young talents at the council hall in Fugar, Etsako Central headquarters.
He emphasized unwavering commitment to nurturing and empowering schools and students competing for the essay competition at the local government area.
He said, “I am committed to raising young talents in the field of journalism, fostering intellectual growth, and bringing to light the desired developmental happening in the educational sector at Etsako Central LGA.
The Dele Giwa Essay competition, which featured participation from both senior and secondary schools, was keenly judged by Lecturers: Mr. Anthony Ofunne, Mr. Mohammed Otono, and Mr. Utsalo Henry from the Department of Mass Communication, Auchi Polytechnic.
The Local Government Spokesman, Anthony Igbanor, in a statement, noted that the panel of judges meticulously assessed the essays submitted by the students, evaluating their knowledge, creativity, and ability to articulate ideas effectively, resulting in winners.
“Hon. Solomon Obomighie also reiterated the importance of encouraging and supporting young individuals interested in journalism.
He emphasized the significance of journalism as a catalyst for societal development and stressed the need for journalists to adhere to ethical reporting, objective analysis and the pursuit of truth.
“The Dele Giwa Essay Competition serves as a platform for young writers in Etsako Central to express their thoughts and showcase their writing prowess,” the chairman added.
Our Correspondent reports that the event witnessed the convergence of talented students and notable dignitaries from various sectors of society.
The organizing committee of the competition extended their sincere gratitude to Hon. Solomon Obomighie,all the individuals and sponsors who contributed to the success of the Dele Giwa Essay Competition 2024.
At the end of the exercise,Idegbo Elisha of Fugar Mixed Secondary School emerged the champion,Oshomokhai Kenneth from St. John Secondary School was the runner up while Fidelis Abada from Pioneer Comprehensive College came third.
The Reporters reports that Dele Giwa(39), who was the Editor in Chief, Newswatch magazine at the time of his assassination, is regarded as one of the finest and highly cerebral journalists Nigeria ever produced.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
