A Tribute to Tunde Akingbade

By Babafemi Ojudu

Tunde Akingbade may no longer be a familiar name to many, but those of us who had the privilege of knowing him and working alongside him will never forget him.

Thirteen years ago, at the very height of his powers, life dealt him a cruel blow. A devastating stroke abruptly ended a flourishing career and confined him to a long season of silence and dependence. Since then, he had been lovingly cared for by his devoted sister, whose extraordinary sacrifice, patience, and unwavering commitment deserve our deepest admiration.

Yesterday, when I shared the sad news of Tunde’s passing with our mutual friend and former colleague, Chief Dele Momodu, we found ourselves reflecting on how unpredictable and, at times, painfully unfair life can be. Tunde deserved many more productive years. Yet fate ordained otherwise.

Even in that painful reality, there is something profoundly inspiring. His sister became his guardian, nurse, companion, and source of strength for over a decade. Such steadfast love is rare. She stood by him when many would have faltered, giving him dignity, comfort, and the reassurance that he was never alone. May God richly bless her, console her in this moment of grief, and reward her abundantly for the immeasurable love she lavished on our dear friend.

Before illness interrupted his journey, Tunde Akingbade was one of the finest journalists of his generation. Ever smiling, handsome, elegant, and unfailingly courteous, he possessed a brilliant mind, an insatiable curiosity, and an uncommon ability to transform ideas into action.

He was erudite, meticulous, and intellectually restless. He read deeply, researched rigorously, travelled extensively across Nigeria and beyond, and wrote with clarity, conviction, and purpose. He authored books and essays that reflected not merely scholarship but a genuine commitment to making society better.

Long before environmental sustainability became a fashionable cause or a global slogan, Tunde had already dedicated his life and career to it. He understood that protecting the environment was ultimately about protecting humanity itself. Through his writings, advocacy, and public engagements, he became one of Nigeria’s early and most articulate voices for environmental consciousness. He laboured tirelessly to awaken both government and citizens to their responsibilities toward nature and future generations.

His was a life of ideas, service, integrity, and quiet excellence. Though illness deprived the nation of many more years of his contributions, it could not erase the legacy he had already built nor diminish the impact he made on colleagues, readers, and all who encountered his work.

Today, we mourn not only a distinguished journalist but also a gentleman of grace, humility, intellect, and uncommon purpose.

Farewell, dear Tunde.

You fought your battles with quiet dignity. You leave behind a body of work, cherished memories, and an example of dedication that will endure.

May the Almighty grant you eternal rest, comfort all who mourn you, and grant your devoted sister the peace that comes from a life of love faithfully lived.

Rest well, my friend.