The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), and the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Lagos Chapter, have commiserated with the family of veteran journalist, Dapo Sotuminu, who died in Lagos, yesterday, morning after a brief illness.

NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, said: “This is shocking. I have known Dapo for more than two decades and have always been impressed with his zest for thoroughness and of course, his passion for women’s football from the beginning of the game in Nigeria.

“Words are not enough to describe his stature as a professional and someone who showed immense respect and regard to fellow professionals and other human beings. We pray that the Almighty will grant him eternal rest, and also grant his family, friends, and the sports-writing fraternity the fortitude to bear the big loss.”

Reports said the dedicated and resilient journalist gave up the ghost at the hospital to which he was rushed after he suddenly fell ill at home.

Sotuminu, a sapient and prolific professional for the several decades he was in the trade, worked at, among other media houses, TNT Newspapers (Deputy Sports Editor), New Telegraph Newspapers (Deputy Sports Editor) and Compass Newspapers (Sports Editor).

Suave, self-effacing, and gifted with boundless energy, Dapo Sotuminu also served as the Director of Communications of the Nigeria Women Football League, and Media Director of Access Bank Lagos City Marathon.

Also commiserating with the Sotuminu family, Lagos SWAN Chairman, Debo Oshundun, said: “This is a loss that strikes the heart of the association and serves as a painful reminder of the toll taken on the journalism and sports community.

Sotuminu’s untimely departure is a case of one too many as we battle with the death of another member, Adeyinka Adebayo. This will surely leave an indelible mark on Lagos SWAN and its members.”

Oshundun described him as a consummate professional and passionate journalist because he would always be ready to stand and be counted when called. While reminiscing on his life and time, he said Sotuminu was dedicated and committed to excellence and professionalism.

The Lagos SWAN chairman said these were evident throughout his illustrious career.