The family of late journalist and founder of The Eagle Online, Oladotun Oladipo, has assured readers, advertisers and partners that the publication will continue operating despite his death.
Oladipo, 56, died on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, in Lagos, after suddenly taking ill at his office.
His death was subsequently confirmed by the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP), which he previously led as president.
In a statement signed by Taiwo Oladipo on behalf of the family, the deceased publisher was said to have made provisions for the continuity of the digital newspaper before his death.
The family said Oladipo had developed “some form of a business continuity plan” because of his strong commitment to the publication and its future.
“He was deeply passionate about The Eagle Online and regarded it not merely as a business, but as a platform for responsible journalism and public service,” the family said.
According to the statement, the continuity plan has now been activated and is being refined to ensure that the publication remains operational and continues to reflect its founder’s vision.
Oladipo founded The Eagle Online in 2011, after a journalism career spanning traditional and digital media.
He previously worked with Nigerian Tribune, Nigerian Compass, The Sun and PUNCH Newspapers, where he served as Politics Editor.
His death has been widely mourned across Nigeria’s media industry, with the Federal Government, media organisations and professional bodies describing his contribution to journalism and online publishing as significant.
Family members said his passing represented a major loss to relatives, colleagues, readers, advertisers, business partners and others who had worked with him or benefited from his professional relationships.
They noted that Oladipo devoted a substantial part of his life to journalism and built The Eagle Online into a digital news platform with a loyal readership and an extensive network of advertisers and commercial partners.
The family also sought to reassure advertisers and other business partners that their relationships with the publication remained important as the transition following Oladipo’s death is managed.
“We recognise that many people have invested their trust in The Eagle Online over the years. We do not take that trust for granted,” the family said.
It added that its immediate priority was to preserve the legacy created by Oladipo while ensuring that the publication continued to develop and serve its readers.
The family appealed to readers, advertisers and partners to continue supporting The Eagle Online during the transition period.
It also expressed appreciation to individuals and organisations that had reached out since Oladipo’s death, while asking for prayers and understanding.
“Dotun may have left us, but the work to which he devoted so much of his life will continue. The Eagle Online will continue to fly,” the family said.
Oladipo was buried in Lagos on September 11, following a service of songs and funeral service at Daystar Christian Centre in Oregun, Ikeja.
