Family announces passing of media icon, Dan Agbese at 81

The Agbese family of Ikpilogwu clan of Agila district, Ado Local Government Area of Benue State has announced the passing of Chief Dan Agbese ex-Editor of Newdwatch magazine.

Agbese, who was the Awan’Otun of Agila, according to the family, transited to eternal glory this morning, Monday November 17, 2025.

The family said burial arrangements would be announced in due course.

“Born May 12, 1944 in Agila, Chief Agbese was a renowned journalist and author, famous for his seminal contributions to journalism practice in Nigeria and renowned for his satirical columns.

“He was editor of The Nigeria Standard and New Nigerian newspapers, and General Manager of Radio Benue, Makurdi.

“Chief Agbese was one of the founders of the trail-blazing Newswatch magazine and was until April 2010 its Editor-in-Chief.

“Before his passing, he wrote several books and maintained weekly columns in notable newspapers including the Daily Trust and The Guardian, while running a media consultancy with his friends and colleagues, Ray Ekpu, Yakubu Muhammed and Soji Akinrinade,” announced the family.

He is survived by his wife, Chief Rose Agbese, their six children, and seven grandchildren.

The statement was signed by Okibe AGBESE, for the family.