The Nigerian media landscape has lost one of its founding pillars with the passing of Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed, a veteran journalist, co-founder of the revolutionary Newswatch magazine, and a key architect in the nation’s media history. His death, coming less than two months after that of his fellow co-founder Dan Agbese, marks the end of an era for a generation of journalists who defined investigative reporting in Nigeria.
Alhaji Mohammed hailed from Ologba in the Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State, a region that also mourns the loss of a revered son.
Pioneering Role and Founding of Newswatch
Mohammed was a central figure in the founding of Newswatch, Nigeria’s first major newsweekly owned and run by journalists. In 1984, following friction with publisher M.K.O. Abiola at the National Concord newspaper, Mohammed, then the Editor of the Concord, spearheaded the move to independence alongside colleagues Dele Giwa and Ray Ekpu. He later brought Dan Agbese on board to complete the historic quartet.
Despite being described as the true catalyst behind the magazine’s creation, Mohammed characteristically took a back seat in the leadership structure, serving as an Executive Editor and later Managing Editor, while shaping the publication’s fearless editorial direction. Launched in 1985, Newswatch set new standards for courage and professionalism in Nigerian journalism.
Insights from a Landmark Memoir and Unresolved Legacy
Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed recently published his memoir, “Beyond Expectations,” which was publicly presented in Lagos on November 4, 2025. The book offers critical insights into the founding of Newswatch and the tumultuous political environment of the 1980s.
A significant portion addresses the unresolved 1986 parcel bomb assassination of his co-founder, Dele Giwa. In the memoir, Mohammed directly challenges long-held conspiracy theories, including the infamous “Gloria Okon” narrative. He clarified that:
· Newswatch was not working on a story about Gloria Okon.
· Dele Giwa did not travel to London to interview her.
· It was Giwa who called Colonel Haliru Akilu on the morning of his death, not the other way around.
Until his final days, Mohammed remained actively involved in efforts by the magazine’s original founders to reclaim Newswatch assets following its disputed takeover by businessman Jimoh Ibrahim.
A Life of Broader Service
Beyond journalism, Yakubu Mohammed’s legacy includes significant public service. He served as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria. He was also instrumental in the very creation of Kogi State on August 27, 1991, and briefly ventured into politics with an aspiration to govern the state.
The passing of Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed represents the fall of an Iroko tree-a mighty and unwavering presence. He leaves behind a legacy of integrity, pioneering courage in journalism, and dedicated service to his community and country. He is survived by his family, the media community, and a nation indebted to his contributions.
Reporting from Abuja, Nigeria.