* Describes Him As Symbol of Nationalist Struggle And Crusader of Truth
- Praised For Mentoring Journalists, Politicians And Teachers
By Chinwendu Agoha (Media & Governance Correspondent)
Nigeria's foremost nationalist, politician and the first editor of the Daily Times Newspaper, Chief Ernest Sesei Ikoli, has been described as a crusader of truth and a symbol of the struggle against oppression and discrimination in Nigeria.
This commendation was given on Wednesday by his foundation, the Ernest Ikoli Foundation. The legendary journalist was hailed as a "reformer, politician and a great journalist. He campaigned for the birth of the Second republic and departed. His work was done with the attainment of the country's political independence".
Ikoli, during his media practice was a former Assistant Editor of the defunct Lagos Weekly Record, first editor of the Daily Times of Nigeria and publisher of the African Messenger newspaper".
Chief Ikoli was also praised for helping to create the Marcus Garvey Universal Negro Improvement Association; People’s Union ; Nigeria Youth Movement and the Action Group.
‘"Chief Ernest Ikoli saw all Africans as one. There was no Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba or is native Ijaw. There was only one Nigeria, one Africa and one destiny"
The Ernest Ikoli Foundation in a birthday tribute to him, also hailed the foremost journalist for facilitating the exercise of virtues in politicians and labour leaders, creating good journalists in the country, changing lives and advancing the struggles for the independence of Nigeria from British colony rule.
"Chief Ernest Ikoli was endowed with exceptional powers and qualities. He was a good man, very courageous and an inspiration to many"
The celebration of the journalist was contained in a statement by the Executive Vice Chairman of Ernest Sisei Ikoli Foundation, Chief Anthony George-Ikoli (SAN).
The statement applauded the frontline political leader and great journalist for advocating steps towards the emancipation of the people, arguing strongly for an end to colonialism and imperialism.
The foundation also extolled Ernest Ikoli for putting forward a programme for the development of Nigeria, opening of government to a wider social circle, ending external rule and improving the conditions of workers and institutions through protests and legislations.
‘"Chief Ernest Ikoli wanted a united, industrialized and economically self-reliant nation"
The statement highlighted Ikoli's eclectic interests, his vision for a harmonious future, his organizational strength and intellectual depth, coupled with his stable leadership prowess and Christian principles of love of God and man.
The statement emphasized the magnificent oratory and sense of moderation of the prolific writer of politics, economics and social history.
"Chief Ernest Ikoli was firmly committed to representative democracy and open government, which also underscored his extraordinary, wisdom and generosity.
"Chief Ernest Ikoli was one of the activists of Nigeria's political history that fought alongside great nationalist leaders like Herbert Macaulay, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo and Ahmadu Bello in the struggle for the political independence of Nigeria", the statement said.
Born on March 25, 1893 in Nembe, the patriot, Chief Ikoli, died on Friday, October 21, 1960 at the age of 67. He was buried at Ikoyi Cemetery. NNL.
