“A Life Devoted to Truth”: Former Senate President David Mark Celebrates Sufuyan Ojeifo at 60

Former President of the Senate, Senator David A.B. Mark, has paid glowing tribute to veteran journalist and publisher, Mr. Sufuyan Ojeifo, describing him as one of the most perceptive, courageous and intellectually engaging parliamentary correspondents of his generation as he clocks 60.

In a birthday message to the Publisher/Editor-in-Chief of The Conclave Online newspaper, Mark said Ojeifo’s six-decade journey reflects “a life defined by purpose, professional excellence, and an unwavering commitment to the noble ideals of journalism.”

The former Senate President recalled their professional relationship dating back to his tenure as leader of the 6th and 7th Senate, when Ojeifo covered the National Assembly for THISDAY newspaper.

“You distinguished yourself as one of the most perceptive, courageous, and intellectually engaging parliamentary correspondents of his generation,” Mark, currently National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, stated.

He wrote: “Your reports were incisive, balanced, and refreshingly objective. You never hesitated to ask difficult questions or hold public institutions accountable.”

Mark noted that Ojeifo’s constructive criticism, informed analysis and profound understanding of the legislative process contributed immensely to shaping public discourse on the work of the Senate and by extension, strengthened democratic institutions in Nigeria.

“Even when your perspectives differed from ours, they were always expressed with integrity, guided by conviction and inspired by the larger national interest,” he said. “Those are qualities that have continued to earn you the respect and admiration of colleagues, public officials and readers alike.”

The former lawmaker praised Ojeifo’s evolution beyond the newsroom into a respected voice in Nigeria’s media landscape as an accomplished editor, publisher, columnist, media entrepreneur and public affairs analyst.

“Your contributions have enriched journalism and deepened democratic governance in our country,” Mark added.

As Ojeifo celebrates the “diamond milestone,” Mark joined family, friends and professional colleagues in thanking God “for a life devoted to the service of truth, justice and nation building.”

He prayed for many more years for the celebrant in “good health, renewed strength, greater wisdom and continued relevance as you inspire younger generations of journalists to uphold the highest ethical and professional standards of the profession.”

“Happy 60th birthday, my dear friend. May the years ahead be even more fulfilling, impactful and rewarding than those already spent,” the message concluded.