The Federal Capital Territory Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has mourned the demise of its former Secretary, Mrs. Rafat Idris.
Mrs Rafat died in the early hours of Friday, in Abuja after a brief illness and has since been laid to rest according to Islamic rites.
In a statement signed by the Secretary of Council, Comrade Jide Oyekunle, the NUJ described the untimely death of the former secretary as a huge shock to the union.
“The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council received the news of the sudden death of the former Secretary, Mrs. Rafat Salami today, with a rude shock and disbelief.
“Rafat was a great asset to journalism and a quintessential journalist who has served the union meritoriously in many capacities at different levels. She was a friend and mother to all.
Read Also: Okpebholo lifts ban on NURTW, charges union to embrace peace
“She served the union with unwarranted dedication and commitment, contributing significantly to the growth of the profession during her tenure as secretary of council. She is a peace-loving and easygoing person who has remained a strong member.
“She was not only a remarkable leader but also a cherished friend to many people in the profession. Her passion for professionalism and excellence will always be remembered,” the statement stated.
The council expressed its condolences to the immediate family she left behind, the NUJ Voice of Nigeria (VON) Chapel, the NUJ and the entire VON management in this time of grief.
Rafat was the Assistant Director of Digital Media I at VON. She was the former assistant secretary of the International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria and re-elected as the treasurer of the institute last week.
She was the founder of the Okenite Foundation for Special Needs Children and a media personnel of Habbabiya.
She hailed from Ihima in the Okenne Local Government Area of Kogi State and is survived by three children.
