Lawrence Oseghale (Lord Tyron)
For the sake of what journalism stands for, I am honour-bound to put my journey in office into writing. A sense of honour and nostalgia fills me as I recount my 100-plus days as the Editor-in-Chief of the History Press organization. It was an experience that shaped and redefined my understanding of social duty and justice. Journalism, as I have come to realise, is not merely the theoretical practice of reporting or creative writing. It is the courage to “describe what you see, the way you saw it” while holding firmly to the ethics of fairness and neutrality. In this role, I was renewed in my commitment to respond to issues many might choose to ignore.
When the mantle fell on me, it marked the beginning of a new phase. I was not fully prepared, but any weakness in administrative or editorial skill could not be an excuse. Journalism has no room for mediocrity. Instead, the responsibility pushed me toward personal growth so that I could meet the demands of piloting the office of the Editor-in-Chief. This period broadened my understanding of the profession. The growth was not only personal. It was also reflected in the progress of the organization as a whole.
The duty of a campus journalist is a heavy one. It goes beyond informing or educating. It involves investigation, evidence, and reporting that can withstand scrutiny while maintaining fairness and balance. It is a responsibility that requires a deep commitment to the ideals of social justice. Guided by this principle, my editorial board and I carried out our duties to the best of our ability and within the proper standards of the profession. Journalism is both exciting and demanding. The challenge is not simply what to write or how to write it, but the discipline and commitment required, especially in voluntary service such as campus reporting. Once that mental barrier is overcome, the pen becomes a powerful tool, as affirmed by the popular saying, “Books and all forms of writing are a terror to those who wish to suppress the truth.”
I must state sincerely that I did not work alone. Every member and column leader contributed to the achievements recorded during my tenure. My Features Editor, News Editor, and Managing Editor carried critical responsibilities that strengthened our work. This is not to diminish the efforts of others whose roles are not mentioned. Each member played a unique role, and everyone gave their best. At our first in-house meeting, I shared my vision for reforms and new initiatives. Some were achieved, while others remained unfinished. But the results reflected our shared intention and commitment. For this, I express my deepest gratitude to every member for their service and dedication to the cause of journalism.
My journey in campus journalism cannot be separated from the advice of a close friend, Aduwo. Although I had a natural interest in writing, he encouraged me to expand my scope by exploring journalism. I joined under the auspices of Awusosi Oluwabukunmi (Reborn) during the 2021 to 2022 academic session and later became a registered member of UCJ in early 2023. Within that short period, I learned and relearned the tenets of journalism and the values of leadership and responsibility, especially from Awusosi Oluwabukunmi, Babalola Samuel, Ayodele Aduwo, and my predecessor, Oyekola Abdulmuizz.
It is also important to acknowledge the strong support of the History Press alumni. Several individuals played key roles in the success of my tenure. Though their names might not all be mentioned, their emotional and financial support made the journey smoother. History Press is fortunate to have alumni who not only laid the foundation but continue to care about its growth and continuity.
Finally, to my successor, Oluseun Fatope, I have great confidence in your character and ability to raise the standard and build on what has been achieved. I trust your leadership to nurture the talents within the team and bring out their best. You should understand that the path may not always be easy. Nevertheless, strive earnestly for what is truthful, accurate, balanced, and factual. Let the power of the pen continue to promote justice and freedom. This is the only charge I leave with you. Keep History Press flying.
