The Agbese family of the Ikpilogwu clan in Agila District, Ado Local Government Area of Benue State, has formally announced the passing of their husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and mentor, Chief Dan Agbese, the Awan’Otun of Agila.
Chief Agbese peacefully transitioned to eternal glory on the morning of Monday, November 17, 2025, at the age of 81.
According to the family, burial arrangements will be communicated in due course.
Born on May 12, 1944, in Agila, Chief Agbese was a distinguished journalist, author, and one of Nigeria’s most respected columnists. He earned national acclaim for his incisive writings, contributions to media development, and mastery of satirical commentary.
Throughout his illustrious career, he served as Editor of The Nigeria Standard and New Nigerian newspapers, and later as General Manager of Radio Benue, Makurdi. He was also one of the founding members of the pioneering Newswatch magazine, where he served as Editor-in-Chief until April 2010.
Until his passing, Chief Agbese continued to write influential weekly columns for major Nigerian newspapers, including Daily Trust and The Guardian, and co-managed a media consultancy alongside his long-time colleagues Ray Ekpu, Yakubu Muhammed, and Soji Akinrinade.
He is survived by his wife, Chief Rose Agbese, six children, and seven grandchildren.
Okibe Agbese
For the Family