Moyo and Mofe Oyatogun of star fm losses father...

Many sports lovers would remember Walter Oyatogun for his baritone voice on the Nigerian Television Authority back in the late 70s and early 80s. He might not have been some viewers’ favourite presenter then but no one will disagree with the fact that he delivered sports stories with interesting analyses, displaying acute knowledge in various sports disciplines.
He was in a class of his own during his time on air, and not a few journalists and sports administrators gained from his wealth of experience and sagacity. Such was his influence and fame in sports journalism.


Oyatogun is a lover of many sports. He was even an amateur boxer in his early years in Ghana, representing Nigeria at regional championships in the late 60s.
The Oyo State-born septuagenarian is often described as stubborn, based on his stance on issues relating to sports development. But he explains his arguments were borne out of his beliefs that things would work out if principles were followed.
“I’m not a stubborn man; I just believe in principles. I live my life in a manner that will not violate another man’s freedom,” the former pugilist said.
Oyatogun joined NTA in the late 70s as a reporter but he insisted his love for journalism dated back to the 50s.

He said, “I started journalism a very long time ago even before I went into boxing. It was when I joined the NTA as a reporter that I delved into sports reporting.
“Before joining the NTA, I was with the Lagos State Sports Council where I helped in bringing about a number of interests for the organisation.”

Oyatogun went into film production after leaving the NTA but his programme went off the air when funds were not forthcoming from sponsors.
If Oyatogun’s fans had thought his fame and vast knowledge in sports would bring him fortune, they were dead wrong. The ace broadcaster lives in penury and is suffering from atherosclerosis, a disease related to the thickening of the artery walls and which doctors say could have led to the partial stroke he suffered on July 27 2012. He later suffered two others strokes which left him more incapacitated. He died last weekend in a Lagos hospital after suffering a stroke.

However a tribute was made for him this morning by the duo; Moyo and Mofe on their morning regular morning show. The show will be brought to a halt for this week in honour of their departed darling father.
May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.

This is a wake up call to our government. We celebrate veterans after their exit more than we do when they are alive.