PANDEF Pays Tribute to Late Patrick Dele Cole — Forum Celebrates Departed Elder Statesman as a Diplomat and a Nation Builder

 

By Wilson Macaulay

YENAGOA — The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has paid glowing tribute to its late prominent leader and elder statesman, Chief (Ambassador) Patrick Dele Cole, celebrating his remarkable contributions to journalism, diplomacy, nation-building, democratic development and the struggle for the political and socio-cultural advancement of the Niger Delta.

Chief Cole, fondly known as PDC, died in London on October 17, 2026, at the age of 86, after a brief illness, leaving behind an enduring legacy of intellectual distinction, public service and commitment to Nigeria's development.

In honour of the departed statesman, PANDEF has declared a seven-day mourning period, directing all its chapters across Nigeria and the diaspora to suspend official social activities during the period as a mark of respect for a man whose life and career traversed several important sectors of national life.

The organisation's position was conveyed in a condolence statement issued by its National Chairman, Ambassador Dr Godknows Boladei Igali, OON, on behalf of the Board of Trustees and National Executive Committee.

PANDEF described Chief Cole's death as a painful and irreplaceable loss to his family, the Niger Delta and Nigeria, noting that the country had lost a distinguished personality whose wealth of experience, intellectual depth and contributions to national development earned him recognition across professional and political divides.

The forum said it received the news of his passing with profound shock and deep sorrow, particularly coming just weeks after the late statesman celebrated his 86th birthday.

A Distinguished Career in Journalism and Public Service

PANDEF's tribute highlighted Chief Cole's exceptional career as an educationist, journalist, civil servant, diplomat and politician, describing him as a man whose professional accomplishments and dedication to public service left an indelible mark on Nigeria's political and intellectual landscape.

One of the defining milestones of his career was his service as Editor-in-Chief of the Daily Times of Nigeria, one of the country's foremost national newspapers, where he contributed significantly to the development of Nigerian journalism and public discourse.

His years in journalism placed him among the influential media personalities who helped shape national conversations during a critical period in the country's political and institutional development.

Beyond the newsroom, Chief Cole distinguished himself in government and international relations, serving as Presidential Adviser on Foreign Affairs and Nigeria's Ambassador to Brazil.

These assignments reflected his involvement in shaping Nigeria's foreign relations and representing the country's interests within the international community.

His transition into partisan politics further demonstrated his sustained engagement with Nigeria's democratic process. He emerged as a presidential candidate under the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and subsequently served on the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Through these varied responsibilities, Chief Cole established a public profile that combined professional excellence, political participation and a longstanding interest in the affairs of the Nigerian state.

A Pillar of Niger Delta Advocacy

Beyond his national and international assignments, PANDEF particularly acknowledged Chief Cole's invaluable contributions to the socio-cultural, political and developmental aspirations of the Niger Delta.

The organisation described him as one of the important figures associated with its formation and growth, noting that his intellectual capacity, national stature and extensive experience enriched its activities from its formative years until his death.

His involvement in the regional platform reflected his commitment to strengthening the voice of the Niger Delta in national affairs and advancing the interests of the South-South geopolitical zone.

For PANDEF, his passing represents not merely the loss of a prominent member but also the departure of a respected elder whose counsel, experience and understanding of national issues constituted valuable assets to the organisation and the wider Niger Delta struggle.

The forum noted that Chief Cole's contributions to regional advocacy formed an important part of his public legacy, particularly at a time when the region continues to pursue greater inclusion, equitable development and recognition of its cultural identity and contributions to the Nigerian economy.

His role in PANDEF demonstrated the importance he attached to collective engagement, dialogue and the pursuit of the Niger Delta's interests within the framework of the Nigerian federation.

Christian Faith, Cultural Heritage and National Identity

PANDEF also acknowledged the late statesman's standing as a strong Christian leader and advocate of Nigeria's cultural heritage, particularly the traditions and identities of the South-South peoples.

According to the organisation, his life represented a distinctive combination of intellectual engagement, faith, cultural consciousness and public service.

His commitment to these values contributed to the respect he commanded among political leaders, professionals, community stakeholders and members of the Niger Delta community.

The forum's tribute underscored the significance of preserving the values and ideals exemplified by leaders such as Chief Cole, whose careers extended beyond personal achievements to encompass service to their communities and the nation.

PANDEF Condoles Cole Family, Rivers State

In expressing its condolences, PANDEF extended special sympathies to the late statesman's son, Rt. Hon. Tonye Cole, and other members of the Cole family over the loss of their patriarch.

The organisation also commiserated with the people of Abonnema in the Kalabari Kingdom, where Chief Cole held the revered traditional title of High Chief, as well as the Ijaw nation, the government and people of Rivers State, and Nigerians across the country.

It urged the bereaved family, his community and the wider Niger Delta to draw comfort from his distinguished life, his contributions to society and the enduring values he represented.

While acknowledging the vacuum created by his death, PANDEF expressed confidence that his record of service and commitment to national development would continue to inspire future generations.

Seven-Day Mourning Declared

As part of its institutional tribute, PANDEF directed all its chapters across Nigeria and the diaspora to suspend official activities of a social nature for seven days, beginning Monday, October 19, 2026.

The forum also instructed that all its media platforms should prominently display Chief Cole's image throughout the mourning period as a symbolic expression of honour and remembrance.

The measures, according to the organisation, reflect the depth of its grief and its determination to accord the departed statesman the respect befitting his contributions to PANDEF and the Niger Delta.

The mourning period is also an opportunity for members of the organisation and the wider Niger Delta community to reflect on his life, achievements and commitment to regional advocacy.

An Enduring Legacy of Service

Chief Cole's death marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the life of a Nigerian whose professional journey encompassed journalism, diplomacy, presidential advisory responsibilities, partisan politics and regional advocacy.

From his influential years in the media to his service as Nigeria's Ambassador to Brazil, his role as Presidential Adviser on Foreign Affairs and his participation in the country's democratic process, he maintained a longstanding engagement with issues affecting Nigeria's political and institutional development.

For the Niger Delta, his contributions to PANDEF and his commitment to the region's political and cultural interests remain significant elements of his legacy.

His life also illustrates the value of bringing professional experience, intellectual capacity and national influence to bear on the advancement of communities and the pursuit of a more inclusive federation.

As tributes continue to follow his passing, PANDEF has called attention to the enduring significance of his contributions, describing his departure as a profound loss to the organisation, his family and the country.

The forum concluded its condolence message with a prayer for the peaceful repose of his soul, expressing the hope that his family, associates and the wider Niger Delta community would find strength and comfort in the memory of his distinguished life and service.

May his soul rest in perfect peace.