Veteran Communication Scholar Professor Sobowale D!es At 85

Nigeria’s communication and media community is mourning the death of renowned communication scholar and veteran professional, Professor Idowu Akanbi Sobowale, who passed away on Thursday morning at the age of 85.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Sobowale’s death was announced by a family member, Akinniyi Sowunmi, in a statement issued on Thursday, October 8, 2026.

Sowunmi described the death of Pa Deacon Professor Idowu Akanbi Sobowale, OON, as a significant loss to the communication community in Nigeria, particularly members of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals in Nigeria.

The statement described the deceased as a respected father and prominent figure whose passing would be deeply felt across the communication profession.

The family expressed sadness over his death and said further details concerning his funeral arrangements would be made public at a later date.

Sobowale’s death comes shortly after the reported passing of another prominent Nigerian figure, Chief Ralph Obioha, a businessman, former lawmaker and pro-democracy activist who played a notable role in the struggle for the restoration of democracy during the years of military rule.

Obioha became prominent through his involvement with the National Democratic Coalition, NADECO, which campaigned for the restoration of the democratic mandate following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.

He spent part of the pro-democracy struggle outside Nigeria, particularly in Canada and the United States, where he worked with other activists to garner international support for Nigeria’s return to democratic rule.

His political career also included service in the House of Representatives during the Second Republic. He later founded the Justice Party, which contested the 2003 presidential election with Reverend Chris Okotie as its candidate.

Obioha was also involved in the affairs of Ohanaeze Ndigbo and served as chairman of its Caretaker Committee at a time when the organisation was focused on advancing the interests of people from the South-East.

In June 2026, President Bola Tinubu honoured Obioha with a national honour alongside other Nigerians associated with the June 12 pro-democracy struggle, recognising their contributions and sacrifices during the period of military rule.

The passing of Professor Sobowale has now added to the recent losses involving notable Nigerian personalities, with colleagues and members of the communication profession expected to continue paying tribute to his contributions to scholarship and the media industry.