By Queen Kunde
The Middle Belt region was thrown into mourning on Friday following the death of veteran journalist and Plateau State Chairman of the Middle Belt Journalists Forum (MBJF), Mr. Ezekiel Dontinna. He died at the age of 52.
In a heartfelt statement released on Saturday, June 21, 2025, Senator Solomon Ewuga, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the MBJF, expressed deep sorrow over Dontinna’s passing, describing him as “an outstanding and well-trained journalist” who dedicated his career to bridging divides and promoting peace across the region.
Senator Ewuga recalled the late journalist’s pivotal role in fostering understanding among the Middle Belt nationalities through his work and publications, noting that Dontinna’s commitment to truth and responsible journalism earned him widespread respect.
“His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and in the pages of the Nigerian Standard, where his voice was a force for unity and justice,” Senator Ewuga stated.
He extended his condolences to the MBJF, the Plateau State Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), the staff of the Nigerian Standard Newspaper, and the grieving family, friends, and colleagues of the late journalist.
The Senator concluded his message with prayers for divine forgiveness of Mr. Dontinna’s shortcomings and strength for his bereaved wife and children.
The journalistic community and the wider Middle Belt continue to pay tribute to a man many considered the conscience of regional reporting.
Memorial plans are expected to be announced in the coming days.