Peter Igho celebrates Sam Amuka at 90

President of the Urhobo Leadership Forum, Abuja, and veteran broadcaster, Olorogun (Dr) Peter Igho (MFR), has extended warm congratulations to Pa Sam Amuka on the occasion of his 90th birthday, describing him as a towering figure in Nigerian journalism.

In a tribute, Dr. Igho praised the founder of Vanguard newspaper for his lasting contributions to journalism, highlighting Amuka’s pioneering role in shaping Nigeria’s media landscape during the critical years leading up to independence.

“Sam Amuka represents an important niche in Nigeria’s popular journalism,” Igho said.

“He was part of the vanguard of writers who came of age professionally just before independence—writers who held our emerging leaders to intense scrutiny.”

Igho emphasized the unique style Amuka brought to journalism, particularly his blend of wit, humour, and critical insight.

“While others delivered stern critiques, Sam Amuka’s polemics stood out for their exuberance and humour.

“He made people laugh, but also inspired necessary reform,” he noted.

Affectionately known as “Sad Sam,” Amuka became a household name long before founding Vanguard. Dr. Igho lauded his enduring legacy, stating that few journalists, past or present, can match the quality and staying power of Amuka’s work.

He also highlighted the personal and cultural duality that defines the nonagenarian, saying, “Even in addressing serious issues, Sam Amuka never lost his sense of humour. His Urhobo-Itsekiri heritage has made him a symbol of harmony in a region often marked by ethnic tensions.”

Describing him as a “healing hand” for the Niger Delta, Igho celebrated Amuka not just as a journalist, but as a unifier and statesman.

“We are more than happy to walk in his shadows and to wish him a wondrous and hilarious happy birthday,” Igho concluded.