Persona Non Grata (Excerpts from the Foreword, as written by Professor Farooq Kperogi )
Reading this book is a reminder of why people like Mr Omipidan matter in today’s world. He embodies the best qualities of journalism: resilience, honesty, and a belief in the power of the written word to inspire change.
As he navigates the corridors of power, he continues to apply the same rigorous standards of integrity that he did as an intern, proving that talent, when combined with character, creates a lasting legacy.
For those who aspire to make a meaningful difference in the world of media and politics, Persona Non Grata is an essential read. It is more than just a memoir; it is proof of what can be achieved when one’s commitment
to truth is unshakeable. Mr Omipidan’s story reminds us all that journalism, at its best, is about courage and conviction – and he exemplifies both.
In a world often dimmed by the opacity of
misinformation and the shadows of agenda-driven narratives, Mr Omipidan’s book is a beacon of truth and determination. It encapsulates the unwavering spirit
of journalism and the relentless pursuit of integrity amidst the whirlwinds of political machinations.
His journey through the intricate dance of media and politics is a vivid chronicle of a man who refuses to be silenced or swayed by the prevailing winds. His story, from the humble beginnings in the vibrant streets of
Otukpo, the cultural capital of the Idoma people in Benue State, to the corridors of power, unfolds with the precision of a skilled journalist and the depth of a seasoned political insider. It offers us insights into the
pulsating heart of Nigerian politics and governance through the lens of a man whose pen and voice are as formidable as his convictions.
What sets this memoir apart is not just the recounting of events as they happened, but the profound reflections on the ethical dilemmas and personal battles that define
and shape a journalist’s life. Mr Omipidan’s narrative is imbued with the essence of a man who has not only observed history but has lived it—battling the dual Goliath of political pressure and societal expectations.
As a journalism professor, I find in Persona Non Grata a critical resource for understanding the intersections of media, politics, and society. I hope other journalism
educators in Nigeria will recommend it to students. It’s a great scholarly compass for students and practitioners of journalism and political science.
Moreover, this book is a clarion call to all who cherish democracy and the power of an unfettered press. It reminds us that the cost of truth can be steep, yet the value of a conscience unassailable by compromise is
the true measure of one’s legacy.
In supporting Mr Omipidan’s courageous account, we are reminded of the role each of us can play in nurturing a just society. His life’s work, as encapsulated in these pages, encourages us to persist, to question, and to
contribute, with hope and resilience, to the intricacy of human endeavour toward freedom and fairness.
To the reader embarking on this journey through Persona Non Grata, prepare to be challenged, enlightened, entertained, and inspired. This is not just a story. It is an experience—an odyssey of courage, a
diary of resilience, and a manifesto of hope.
Farooq Kperogi, PhD,
Professor of Communication and Journalism at Kennesaw State
University, USA, and back-page columnist at the Nigerian Tribune