Online publishers mourn journalist Dotun Oladipo

The Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) has expressed profound sadness over the death of its former president and publisher of The Eagle Online, Dotun Oladipo. Oladipo passed away on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at the age of 56.

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Oladipo came into online publishing with years of experience in the traditional media. He had worked as a journalist and editor before moving into digital publishing and bringing that experience to The Eagle Online.

In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Kemi Yesufu, GOCOP highlighted Oladipo's crucial role in shaping the organization during its formative years. He served as president from 2017 to 2021, bringing a wealth of experience from his extensive career in traditional media, where he worked as a journalist and editor before transitioning to digital publishing with The Eagle Online.

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At a time when online news publishing was still developing in Nigeria, he was among those who saw the need for publishers to come together, share ideas and build a stronger professional community.

GOCOP President Danlami Nmodu described Oladipo's death as a painful loss for the guild. He emphasized Oladipo's significant contributions during his four-year tenure, a period when establishing online publishers as a vital part of the media landscape required considerable effort. Nmodu noted that Oladipo's understanding of both journalism and the publishing business, coupled with his passion for online media in Nigeria, made his leadership invaluable.

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As President between 2017 and 2021, Oladipo devoted considerable time to the affairs of the Guild. He represented GOCOP at different engagements and worked with members as the organisation dealt with the opportunities and challenges that came with the rapid growth of online publishing.

Oladipo's career included roles as politics editor and a member of the editorial board at PUNCH Newspapers. He also worked with Nigerian Tribune, Nigerian Compass, and The Sun before founding The Eagle Online. He held a Higher National Diploma in Mass Communication from the Ogun State Polytechnic, Abeokuta. The guild extended its condolences to his family, The Eagle Online staff, and his media colleagues.

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Dotun played an important role in the development of GOCOP. He led the Guild for four years at a time when there was still a lot of work to be done to establish online publishers as an important part of the media. His contribution will always be remembered.