The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Shola Ayebola, a veteran television producer with Africa Independent Television (AIT), described his passing as a monumental loss to journalism and the human rights community in Nigeria.
In a condolence message issued by its Management and Staff, the Commission said it received the news of Ayebola’s death with shock and sadness, noting that he was not only an exceptional journalist but also a committed human rights advocate and dependable partner in the promotion and protection of human rights.
According to the NHRC, Ayebola was a journalist of rare dedication and integrity whose work reflected courage, professionalism and an unwavering commitment to justice and human dignity. His programmes consistently amplified the voices of victims, exposed abuses and demanded accountability, ensuring that critical human rights issues were brought to public attention.
The Commission further commended his strict adherence to the ethics of journalism, including factual accuracy, balance, objectivity and fairness. It noted that Ayebola understood the human dimension behind every story and handled sensitive human rights issues with empathy and responsibility.
The NHRC particularly highlighted his outstanding contribution as producer of the widely respected programme “State of Human Rights,” aired every Thursday at 8:45 a.m. on Kakaaki, the African Voice. The programme, the Commission said, became a vital platform for sustained engagement on human rights, policy discourse and public enlightenment, owing to his commitment, consistency and editorial leadership.
Describing his life and career as one marked by service, sacrifice and advocacy, the Commission said Ayebola firmly believed in the power of the media as a catalyst for social change and dedicated his professional life to advancing that cause.
On behalf of its Management and Staff, the NHRC extended heartfelt condolences to his family, the Management and Staff of AIT, and all those mourning his death. The Commission prayed for eternal rest for his soul and comfort for his loved ones, noting that his life was meaningful, impactful and worthy of honour.
Shola Ayebola, the NHRC concluded, will be remembered for the lives he touched, the injustices he helped expose and the high standards he set for journalism in the service of humanity.
