Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and Head of Transparency International Nigeria (TI-Nigeria), has expressed profound grief over the death of veteran journalist Sylvester Enoghase, describing him as a pillar of ethical reportage and a steadfast ally in the fight for good governance.
Enoghase, who until his passing served as Group Business Editor and Labour Editor of Daily Independent Newspapers, was widely acclaimed for his incisive coverage of economic policies, labour matters, and social justice issues. His death has sent shockwaves through both the media community and civil society circles.
In a tribute personally signed by Rafsanjani, the civil society leader said Enoghase was more than a colleague, he was a friend whose dedication to truth-telling and responsible journalism set a high standard for the profession.
“Sylvester embodied the very best of Nigerian journalism. He was meticulous, fair, and deeply committed to holding power accountable. His reports were not just stories; they were tools for civic education and democratic engagement,” Rafsanjani said.
The CISLAC boss particularly noted Enoghase’s outstanding contributions to labour journalism, highlighting his tenure as Chairman of the Labour Writers Association of Nigeria (LAWAN).
According to Rafsanjani, his leadership helped foster greater synergy between journalists and civil society organisations working on workers’ rights and employment policies.
Rafsanjani also praised the late journalist’s ability to bridge the gap between the media and advocacy groups, pointing out that Enoghase never shied away from covering difficult but essential issues such as corruption, public accountability, and the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.
“He was always willing to listen, to investigate, and to report with balance. That rare combination of courage and humility made him a beloved figure among those of us in the advocacy space,” he added.
While acknowledging the deep void Enoghase’s departure leaves behind, Rafsanjani urged journalists and media professionals to draw inspiration from his life of service and integrity.
He offered his condolences to the bereaved family, the management and staff of Daily Independent Newspapers, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and the entire media fraternity. He also prayed that Almighty God would grant the deceased eternal rest and give his loved ones the fortitude to endure this painful loss.
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