Dotun Oladipo: Rasheed Bolarinwa Mourns Late Journalist, Hails His Legacy of Integrity

 Dotun Oladipo: Rasheed Bolarinwa Mourns Late Journalist, Hails His Legacy of Integrity

Renowned public relations and strategic communication expert, Rasheed Bolarinwa, has mourned the death of veteran journalist and media entrepreneur, Dotun Oladipo, describing him as a trusted friend, ally, confidant and brother whose contributions to journalism will remain indelible.

Bolarinwa, a former President of the Association of Corporate Communication and Marketing Professionals in Banks (ACAMB), paid tribute to Oladipo in a statement reflecting on their decades-long relationship, which began in the late 1990s when both worked at The Punch newspapers.

According to him, Oladipo distinguished himself early in his career as a calm, principled journalist who was deeply committed to responsible journalism and the public interest.

He said their friendship continued even after their professional paths diverged, with Oladipo remaining in journalism and eventually establishing The EagleOnline and becoming President of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP).

Bolarinwa said their shared commitment to professionalism brought them together through their respective leadership roles in ACAMB and GOCOP.

He recalled that both organisations worked closely to address misinformation and unprofessional practices capable of damaging the reputation of the banking industry and the media.

“Dotun was often the voice of reason. He understood the power of journalism, but equally appreciated the responsibility that came with it,” Bolarinwa said.

He added that Oladipo frequently intervened during media crises to ease tensions and promote understanding between corporate organisations and journalists.

Bolarinwa also recalled visiting Oladipo at The EagleOnline office in Ogba, Lagos, describing the experience as a reflection of the late journalist’s warmth, humility and commitment to his organisation.

He noted that Oladipo consistently advocated stronger collaboration between credible media organisations and corporate institutions, particularly through GOCOP conferences and industry engagements.

According to him, Oladipo was generous with his time, knowledge and professional network, adding that he regularly sought the late journalist’s counsel on media-related matters and never declined requests for guidance or intervention.

Bolarinwa further recalled celebrating Oladipo’s 50th birthday with him and other friends in Lagos six years ago, noting that they remained in regular contact through conferences, seminars and other industry events.

Mourning the loss, Bolarinwa described Oladipo as more than a former colleague, saying he was a “trusted ally, a comrade, and a brother.”

He expressed condolences to Oladipo’s wife and children, his brother, Tunde, whom he described as his former classmate, journalism colleague and banking associate, as well as members of GOCOP and the wider Nigerian media community.

Bolarinwa said Oladipo’s life was defined by impact, friendship, service and integrity, stressing that his contributions to journalism and professional relationships would continue to inspire those who knew him.

“His footprints are indelible, his legacy enduring, and his memory will remain a source of inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him,” he said.

He prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased’s soul.

Rasheed Bolarinwa is a renowned PR and strategic communication architect and the immediate past President of ACAMB. He writes from Lagos.