The entire members of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) received with shock news of the demise of veteran journalist and Editor, Sir Odafe Othihiwa, who was aged 77.
Sir Othihiwa was a former News Editor of the defunctNigerian Observer from 1997 to 1981. He also served as Group General Manager of the Daily Times and African Independent Television (AIT).
He was ajournalist ofover five decades of professional standing, who also worked with the defunct Daily Expressnewspaper.
Sir Odafe Othihiwa was a reporter per excellence, reputed to be the first African reporter to interview former US President Jimmy Carter in 1978.
The former Daily Times and AIT General Manager, was born in OwodokpoIgbide, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State. He attended Protestant Teacher Training College, Yaba Lagos and taught for 10 years before his foray into the journalism profession.
In 1982, Othihiwa was honoured with the award of the Knighthood Order of St. Augustine by the Head of the World Anglican Communion.
Our heartfelt condolences are hereby extended to the entire members of the Othihiwa family, his professional colleagues and associates in the media, friends and the Delta State Government.
We pray the Almighty God to give the entire Othihiwa family the fortitude to bear this loss and grant his soul eternal rest. Amen.
