Condolences and encomiums have continued to pour for the journalism icon, Alhaji Kola Muslim Animasaun, who passed at the age of 80 on Thursday.
The latest condolences came from the leadership of the Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria, MMPN, which said the late columnist “bestrode the firmament of Nigerian media landscape as a colossus and inspired in us the virtues of dedication, excellence and forthrightness in journalism.”
The MMPN statement was signed by Alhaji Abdur-Rahman Balogun, its national president, and Alhaji Kabir Alabi Garba, chairman of its Lagos State chapter.
In the statement, the MMPN eulogised Animasaun in the following words:
“Alhaji Animashaun bestrode firmament of Nigerian media landscape as a colossus and inspired in us the virtues of dedication, excellence and forthrightness in journalism. An icon of our age, he played a frontline role in the formation and sustainability of our association.
“He was a warm and welcoming person who had a lasting impression at first encounter with anybody.
“His skill as a journalist and public opinion moulder shone brightly in his weekly column, Voice of Reason in the Vanguard, as his style as simple as it is, is very compelling, making journalism attractive for us as an influential calling.
“Alhaji Animashaun will be remembered for many giants in journalism that he mentored to prominence.
“In his death, the nation has lost a true voice of reason, who intervenes with his lucid and informed commentaries at critical times in the life of the nation.
“It is not too much if we celebrate his life and times as a nationalist or nation builder.
“We are comforted that our doyen in journalism departed on a beautiful note, in the glorious month of Ramadan and during the last ten days when Muslims globally become more dedicated in ibaadaat in the search for the night of majesty – Lailatulqadr. In this, we say alhamdulillah for a gracious transition!
“As we pray for the entire family that Allah gives them the fortitude to bear his passage, Inna lillahi wa Inna ilaehi raajiuna.”
