PANDEF MOURNS CHIEF (AMB.) PATRICK DELE COLE, DECLARES SEVEN-DAY MOURNING PERIOD
A distinguished journalist, diplomat, educationist and Niger Delta statesman dies at 86
By Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi | GlobalegberiTV Ofunama
The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has announced a seven-day mourning period following the death of Chief (Ambassador) Patrick Dele Cole, a respected Nigerian statesman whose career spanned journalism, diplomacy, education and public service.
According to a statement issued by PANDEF, the organisation’s Board of Trustees and National Executive Committee received the news of his passing with shock and deep sorrow.
Chief Cole reportedly died in London in the early hours of October 17, 2026, after a brief illness. He was 86 years old.
A LIFE DEDICATED TO PUBLIC SERVICE
Chief Patrick Dele Cole occupied several prominent positions during his distinguished career. He served as Editor-in-Chief of the Daily Times of Nigeria, Presidential Adviser on Foreign Affairs and Nigeria’s Ambassador to Brazil.
He also contested the Nigerian presidency under the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and served as a member of the Peoples Democratic Party’s Board of Trustees, according to the supplied PANDEF statement.
Beyond his political and diplomatic engagements, Cole was recognised as a journalist, educationist, civil servant and public figure whose contributions spanned important areas of national life.
PANDEF PAYS TRIBUTE TO A NIGER DELTA ICON
PANDEF described Chief Cole as an important figure in the socio-cultural and socio-political movements of the Niger Delta, particularly in the activities of the forum from its formation until his passing.
The organisation also recognised his Christian faith and commitment to Nigeria’s cultural heritage, especially the heritage of the South-South region.
His death represents a significant loss to the Niger Delta, where questions of identity, cultural preservation, regional development and political representation remain important to communities and their leaders.
SEVEN-DAY MOURNING PERIOD DECLARED
In honour of the late statesman, PANDEF directed all its chapters in Nigeria and the diaspora to suspend official social activities for seven days.
The organisation also instructed its chapters to display Chief Cole’s image across their media platforms during the mourning period as a mark of respect for his life and contributions.
Note: The commencement date should be confirmed with PANDEF before publication, as the date and weekday in the supplied statement appear inconsistent.
CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY AND THE NIGER DELTA
PANDEF extended its condolences to his son, Rt. Hon. Tonye Cole; the entire Cole family; the people of Abonnema in the Kalabari Kingdom; the Ijaw nation; Rivers State; and the wider Nigerian community.
The forum urged family members, friends, associates and all who mourn his passing to take comfort in the life he lived and the contributions he made.
Chief Patrick Dele Cole’s legacy will be remembered through his work in journalism, diplomacy, politics and public service.
As tributes continue to emerge, his passing offers an opportunity to reflect on the enduring contributions of those who devoted their lives to public affairs and the development of their communities.
May his soul rest in peace.
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Reported by Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi
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