It was an atmosphere of deep grief and solemnity on Saturday in Karshi, Abuja, as the remains of Dr. Leon Usigbe, the late Abuja Bureau Chief of Nigerian Tribune, were committed to mother earth.
Dr. Usigbe, a respected journalist and former State House Correspondent of the Tribune, passed away on July 25, 2025, after a brief illness.
His funeral mass was held at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Karshi, and was officiated by Rev. Fr. David Osagie Akahomhen. The rites of final commendation were performed before his interment at his residence at exactly 12:40 p.m.
The ceremony drew parishioners, colleagues, family, and friends, alongside members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, led by Chairperson Comrade Grace Ike, as well as State House correspondents, editors, and staff of the Tribune’s Abuja Bureau.
Before the mass, pallbearers solemnly bore his casket to the church entrance, where it was received with the cross, lighted candles, holy water, the Holy Bible, and a white pall—symbols of faith, hope, and eternal life.
Preaching from Wisdom 4:7–15 and Romans 8:14–23, Rev. Fr. Akahomhen described the late journalist as a man of courage, impact, and unshakable faith. He recalled a message once sent to him by Usigbe: “Please Father, don’t worry about me, I have lived a good life.” He urged mourners to extend their support to the bereaved family beyond the funeral.
Speaking on behalf of Nigerian Tribune, Acting Abuja Bureau Chief, Prince Jacob Segun Olatunji, described Usigbe as a committed professional who set himself apart in journalism. He prayed for God’s strength for the family.
Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President, who represented the Presidency’s media team, hailed Usigbe as a journalist of high standards, admired for his discipline and optimism.
Similarly, Fred Ituah, Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, described him as a brother and mentor. He urged colleagues in the media to look after one another, noting that Usigbe’s illness remained largely unknown until his passing.
In a moving tribute, his daughter, Barrister Osose Ivy Usigbe, said her father’s greatness lay beyond his professional brilliance. “He gave love freely, valued honesty above all, and carried himself with humility that made everyone feel seen and respected. To us, he was our foundation and strength,” she said.
She expressed gratitude to all who honored her father, noting that their presence showed the family was not left alone in its grief.
