In a solemn moment for the global media fraternity, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, has lowered its microphone and dipped its pen in mourning for one of its brightest beacons—Stella Okoh Esene, former Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), FCT Chapter.
The seasoned journalist and revered media matriarch signed off her final headline on Monday, October 6, 2025, at the National Hospital Abuja, after a prolonged battle with illness. She was 64.
Hailing from Ubiaja, in Edo State’s Esan South East Local Government Area, Stella’s byline stretched far beyond the borders of Nigeria. A lifelong crusader for truth and gender equity, her professional journey spanned decades—from her service at the Federal Ministry of Information to her last editorial stand at True Verdict Online Newspaper.
In an official communiqué, Comrade Jide Oyekunle, Secretary of NUJ FCT Council, described Stella as “a fearless newsroom general, a steadfast defender of ethical journalism, and a lodestar for generations of women journalists.”
“Her loss is more than personal: it is professional. Stella stood as a lighthouse in the stormy sea of modern journalism, guiding many with her integrity, passion, and dedication to the craft. Her legacy is etched not in stone, but in the ink of every young reporter she mentored and every newsroom she helped elevate,” the Council’s statement read.
Esene’s leadership during her tenure as NAWOJ Chairperson was defined by her unwavering commitment to truth, fairness, and inclusion, qualities she wielded like a seasoned editor wields a red pen: with purpose and precision.
Described as a “pillar of strength” and “a heroine of the press,” Stella’s departure is being felt not just in Nigeria but across the global corridors of journalism where voices like hers are rare, resilient, and revolutionary.
The NUJ FCT Council has called on all members of the press to uphold the values Stella championed: courage in reporting, equity in representation, and integrity in storytelling.
As the world of media bids farewell to this veteran of the fourth estate, the Council prays for the peaceful repose of her soul and for strength for her family and colleagues in this time of deep loss.
