By Tunji Braimoh, Abuja

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, through senior police representatives, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command have expressed condolences and pledged support to the family of the late former Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council, Comrade Patrick Osadebamwen, whose death has continued to draw tributes from the media community.
Osadebamwen, a former chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, was reportedly found dead at his residence in Bwari, Abuja, on Saturday, a development that has left journalists and associates in shock.
Following the incident, the NUJ FCT Council contacted the FCT Police Command for assistance in evacuating his remains. The Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP Ajao Adewale, promptly directed officers from the Bwari Divisional Headquarters to respond. The officers subsequently assisted in conveying the deceased’s remains from his residence to a mortuary.
In a statement jointly signed by the Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, and the Council’s Secretary, Comrade Jide Oyekunle, the union commended the FCT Police Command for its swift response and support during the difficult period.
“The Council appreciates the prompt intervention of the FCT Commissioner of Police and the officers who responded immediately after the incident was reported,” the statement said.
During a condolence visit to the family in Bwari, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, who represented the Inspector-General of Police, conveyed the IGP’s condolences to the bereaved family. He described Osadebamwen’s death as a painful loss and assured the family of the police leadership’s support, particularly for the children left behind.
The visit formed part of efforts by the Nigeria Police Force and members of the journalism community to identify with the family and provide comfort during the mourning period.
Speaking on behalf of the Council, Grace Ike described the late Osadebamwen as a dedicated journalist and committed union leader whose contributions to the growth of journalism and the welfare of media practitioners in the FCT would not be forgotten.
She also expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, the FCT Commissioner of Police, media stakeholders and other well-wishers who have stood by the family since the news of his death emerged.
Tributes have continued to pour in from journalists, professional colleagues, friends and associates across the country, many of whom have remembered Osadebamwen for his leadership, commitment to press freedom and service to the journalism profession.
The NUJ FCT Council urged members of the public, journalists and other stakeholders to continue supporting the family in prayers and solidarity. It added that details of the burial arrangements would be announced after consultations with family members and the conclusion of necessary preparations