Mallam Saka Laro, Correspondent for News Direct Newspaper in Kwara State, has died following a prolonged illness. His funeral rites were conducted in accordance with Islamic traditions at his residence in Egbejila, Ilorin, on Tuesday morning.

The Janaza (prayers for his repose) was attended by colleagues from the correspondents' corps, as well as prominent media figures, including former Chief Press Secretary to ex-Governor Bukola Saraki, Alhaji Mas'ud Adebimpe; former Special Adviser (Media) to Governor Saraki, Alhaji Billy Adedamola; Chairman of the League of Veteran Journalists (NALVEJ), Alhaji Mohammed Tunde Akanbi; and Regional Editor (North Central) of Leadership Newspaper, Alhaji Abdullahi Olesin. Family members and friends of the deceased were also present.

The Kwara Correspondents' Chapel and the State's Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), have announced the suspension of union activities to mourn the demise of the late Laro.

The correspondents' chapel in a statement jointly issued by its chairman, Alhaji Abdulhakeem Garba and secretary, Kayode Abdulazeeze, announced the postponement of the chapel's congress earlier scheduled for Thursday May 29, till further notice.

They expressed deep sorrow over the passing of one of its members, and extended the chape'ls heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the late journalist, the Daudu Agaka family in Ilorin West Local Government Area, and the entire NUJ family in Kwara State over the painful loss.

The statement described Saka Laro as "a thoroughbred professional who distinguished himself with humility, professionalism, and admirable leadership qualities throughout his career".

"The chapel prays for the peaceful repose of our late colleague's soul and urges his family to find comfort in the legacy he leaves behind as a calm, dedicated, and principled journalist whose contributions will not be forgotten," the statement added.

Similarly, the state NUJ in a condolence message jointly signed by the Council Chairman, Ahmed Abdullateef, and the secretary, Mahmood Alaya, announced the rescheduled of the union's monthly congress earlier scheduled for Wednesday 28, till tomorrow Thursday May 29th.

The union expressed grief over the loss, describing it as both shocking and unfortunate.

"The news of Mr Saka Laaro's passing came as a devastating blow to all of us. He was not only a dedicated journalist but also a committed member of our great union. His death is a painful reminder of the fragility of life," the NUJ said.