Veteran journalist and former Director at the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Mr. Ogungbemi Oguntula, has passed away.
Fondly known as Gbemi Oguntula by colleagues and friends, he died on Sunday, 11 May 2025, at a private hospital in Ibadan, Oyo State.
He was 69 years old, just nine days shy of his 70th birthday.
Oguntula began his career with NAN in 1983 and steadily rose through the ranks, eventually serving as a Director before retiring in 2016. Throughout his distinguished career
He was a towering figure in the influential Lagos-Ibadan media landscape, particularly prominent from the 1980s to the early 2000s.
Widely respected across political, military, business, academic, and government spheres, Oguntula was known for his deep connections, often on a first-name basis with many national figures.
His network and influence made him a go-to contact for reaching VIPs, usually without barriers.
Known for his humanity, humility, and professionalism, Oguntula was also a dedicated mentor to younger journalists both within NAN and across the wider media industry.
His legacy as a journalist and administrator endures through the many he guided and inspired.
He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Olusola Oguntula, two children, and grandchildren.
Burial arrangements will be announced in due course.
May God grant his family and all who mourn him the strength to bear this loss.
