Patrick Cole, a veteran journalist and father of Tonye Cole—the All Progressives Congress (APC) 2023 governorship candidate for Rivers State—has passed away.
In a personally signed statement issued on Saturday, President Bola Tinubu noted that Cole died at the age of 86 following an extensive career spanning journalism, public service, and diplomacy.
Cole served as the managing director of the Daily Times from 1976 to 1980 and subsequently held the position of Nigerian ambassador to Brazil between 1987 and 1990.
According to reports, he also undertook diplomatic assignments in Argentina and frequently represented Nigeria at the United Nations (UN) and the Organization of African Unity (OAU).
Family sources confirmed that Cole passed away in London on Saturday.
Expressing profound sorrow over his passing, President Tinubu described Cole as “a respected diplomat, journalist, politician, and public servant.”
“Ambassador Cole devoted his life to national service, bringing distinction to his work in diplomacy, journalism and politics,” the president said.
“His career reflected the enduring value of dialogue, tact, mutual respect and the pursuit of shared interests in advancing national development and international cooperation.”
President Tinubu mourns Patrick Cole
The President stated that Cole witnessed critical moments in the nation’s history and contributed to its national development through his work across the media, public service, and diplomacy.
Tinubu remarked that Cole’s life exemplified the enduring value of experience, moral engagement, and a commitment to the common good.
Extending his condolences to the family, friends, and associates of the deceased, the President prayed that cherished memories of his remarkable life would grant them strength and comfort during this difficult period.
Backstory…
Meanwhile, Ambassador Cole’s passing comes just days after Professor Idowu Akanbi Sobowale, a distinguished communication scholar and veteran of Nigeria’s media and academic landscape passed away at the age of 85.
Family member Sowunmi described Professor Sobowale’s passing as a major loss to the broader communication community, particularly to members of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN).
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