Fayemi, Ajimobi, Tinubu eulogise photojournalist Obe

Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, his Oyo
State counterpart Abiola Ajimobi and leader of
the All Progressives Congress (APC) Asiwaju
Bola Tinubu have described the death of ace
photojournalist, Mr. Peter Oyeyemi Obe (81),
as “a huge loss”.
In a statement Fayemi said the late Obe
redefined photojournalism through his
“adventurous and daring” coverage of the 30-
month Nigerian civil war and turned what was
hitherto regarded as a hobby to a dignified
profession.
He said the deceased brought dignity to the
photographic section of the media, which has
grown tremendously.
Fayemi described the late Obe as “a mobile
museum of all the important historical events
in the country”.
He said Obe was “an authority on the socio-
political history of Nigeria, who captured
unforgettable landmarks”.
Fayemi described the late Obe as a diligent
professional, whose contributions would
remain a reference point for generations
unborn.
He urged the deceased’s family to be consoled
by his positive contributions to the media and
the good name he left behind.
Ajimobi said Obe’s death marked the end of an
era in photojournalism.
He said the late Obe’s role during the civil war
and other historical events stood him out as a
core professional.
Ajimobi said: “Although the ace photojournalist
died at the ripe age of 81, his departure is
shocking and painful. He used the power of
pictures to contribute to Nigeria’s socio-
political development.
“Pa Obe was not only an icon, he was a master
of his profession. At a time when not many
people were brave enough to take to
photojournalism as a profession because of the
risk associated with it, he put all hindrances
aside and made a mark.”
He hailed the deceased for compiling his photo
collections into a book to educate the future
generation.
Ajimobi called for the celebration of the life
and time of the late photojournalist, saying he
lived a fulfilled life.
Tinubu said the late Obe represented
uncommon brilliance.
He said: “Obe will never be forgotten. He was a
photographer of excellence. He displayed rare
commitment to his job. At a time when many
saw being a photographer as a mere pastime
or a job for non-starters, Obe took his job
seriously and carved a niche for himself in the
profession.
“Through his numerous works, many came to
realise that pictures are stories. Pictures tell
stories. He was not just a photographer, he
told stories through the pictures he took. He
navigated rough terrains and faced danger to
bring us full and true pictures of
developments, whether good or bad.”
The former Lagos State governor said although
the late Obe would be sorely missed, his works
would stand the test of time.
He urged the new generation of
photojournalists to develop their minds beyond
mere clicks and flashes and enrich their work.
Tinubu said they must act responsibly and see
their profession as a call to duty.
He said: “Obe took photojournalism to a height
hitherto unknown in our clime. I hope the
room he left for advancement shall be filled by
others in this noble profession.”