14/08/2024
Dele Giwa's assassination on October 19, 1986, remains a controversial and unsolved case. While no one has been officially convicted of his murder, there are strong suspicions and allegations pointing to the involvement of the Nigerian military regime at the time, led by General Ibrahim Babangida.
The main suspects include:
1. General Ibrahim Babangida: The then-military Head of State, who was the target of Dele Giwa's investigative reporting.
2. Colonel Halilu Akilu: A senior military officer and Babangida's ally, who was accused of orchestrating the assassination.
3. Lt. Colonel A.K. Togun: A military officer who was alleged to have delivered the parcel bomb that killed Dele Giwa.
The Nigerian government initially denied any involvement, but subsequent investigations and testimonies have implicated the military regime. In 2012, the Nigerian government established a presidential committee to investigate Dele Giwa's murder, but the findings have not been made public.
Despite numerous investigations and allegations, no one has been officially held accountable for Dele Giwa's assassination. The case remains a dark stain on Nigeria's history and a reminder of the dangers faced by journalists and whistleblowers.
Dele Giwa (1947-1986) was a Nigerian journalist, editor, and founder of Newswatch magazine. Here's a brief overview of his background and
Born on March 16, 1947, in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria raised in a polygamous family with 15 siblings. Dele Giwa was born in the family of
Chief Oladele Giwa (a cocoa farmer and a traditional chief) and his
Mother is Mrs. Wura Olubunmi Giwa (a trader and a homemaker)
and his Father had multiple wives and children. Chief Oladele Giwa was a respected figure in their community, and his traditional chieftaincy title was "Balogun" of Ile-Ife.
Dele Giwa's upbringing and family background played a significant role in shaping his values, worldview, and career as a journalist. His parents instilled in him a strong sense of justice, compassion, and hard work, which he carried with him throughout his life.
Attended local schools and later studied at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University)
Started his journalism career in 1974 at the Daily Times of Nigeria If Dele Giwa were still alive today, he would be 77 years old, having been born on March 16, 1947.
To calculate this, I simply added the number of years that have passed since his birth date to his age at the time of his death (39 years old in 1986).
77 years is a remarkable age, and I can only imagine the incredible contributions Dele Giwa would have continued to make to journalism and society if his life had not been tragically cut short.
Worked at The Concord Press and later became editor of Sunday Concord
In 1985, co-founded Newswatch magazine with fellow journalists Ray Ekpu, Dan Agbese, and Yakubu Mohammed. Known for his investigative journalism, in-depth analysis, and fearless reporting on government corruption and human rights abuses
On October 19, 1986, Dele Giwa was killed by a parcel bomb delivered to his home in Lagos. The assassination was linked to his investigative reporting on government corruption and human rights abuses. The case remains unsolved, but it's widely believed to be a state-sponsored assassination
Dele Giwa's death led to widespread outrage and protests against the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida He is remembered as a pioneer of investigative journalism in Nigeria and a champion of press freedom Newswatch magazine continued to thrive after his death, becoming one of Nigeria's most respected and influential publications
Dele Giwa's legacy inspires journalists and activists worldwide to stand up for truth, justice, and accountability.
Dele Giwa's wife's name is Olufunke Giwa. She was married to Dele Giwa until his assassination in 1986. Olufunke Giwa has been a strong advocate for her husband's legacy and has worked to keep his memory alive over the years. She has also been involved in various initiatives to promote press freedom and investigative journalism in Nigeria.
After Dele Giwa's death, Olufunke Giwa faced significant challenges, including raising their three young children alone. However, she has remained a steadfast champion of her husband's work and continues to inspire others through her own strength and resilience.
Dele Giwa had three children
1. Billy Giwa (son)
2. Funmi Giwa (daughter)
3. Ayodele Giwa (son)
After Dele Giwa's assassination, his children were still young, and they faced several significant challenges, including:
*Emotional trauma:
The sudden and brutal loss of a loved one can cause lasting emotional pain and distress.
*Loss of financial support:
Dele Giwa was the primary breadwinner, and his death left his family without a steady income.
*Injustice and impunity:
The perpetrators of his murder were never brought to justice, leaving the family without closure or accountability.
*Struggle for recognition:
Dele Giwa's family had to fight for recognition of his contributions to Nigerian journalism and democracy.
*Intimidation and harassment:
The family faced intimidation and harassment from those who may have been implicated in his murder or wanted to suppress the truth.
*Legal battles:
The family had to engage in lengthy legal battles to seek justice and compensation for Dele Giwa's death.
*Preservation of legacy:
The family worked to preserve Dele Giwa's legacy and ensure his memory and contributions were not forgotten.
These challenges highlight the far-reaching impact of Dele Giwa's assassination on his family and their ongoing quest for justice and recognition. significant challenges. However, his legacy lives on through them, and they have continued to honor his memory and contributions to journalism.
