Nigeria’s communication and media community is mourning the death of veteran communication scholar Professor Idowu Akanbi Sobowale, who died at the age of 85 on Thursday morning, October 8, 2026.
Key Highlights
- Veteran communication scholar Professor Idowu Akanbi Sobowale has died at 85.
- Sobowale reportedly died on Thursday morning, October 8, 2026.
- His death was announced by family member Akinniyi Sowunmi.
- The Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals in Nigeria described the development as a painful loss.
- The circumstances surrounding his death were not disclosed.
- Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced later by the family.
Family Announces Professor Sobowale’s Death
The announcement was contained in a statement titled “Transition to Glory”, signed by Akinniyi Sowunmi and circulated among members of Nigeria’s communication community.
Sowunmi described the death as a painful moment for the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals in Nigeria.
The family statement identified Sobowale as Pa Deacon Professor Idowu Akanbi Sobowale, OON, and said he died on October 8, 2026.
Communication Community Mourns Veteran Scholar
Professor Sobowale’s death marks the passing of a prominent figure whose career was closely associated with communication scholarship and Nigeria’s wider media and professional community.
He was a recognised member of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals in Nigeria, a professional body that brings together academics and practitioners in the communication field.
His death is expected to trigger tributes from colleagues, academics, media professionals and others who encountered his work and contributions during his years in the profession.
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Cause of Death Not Disclosed
The circumstances surrounding Professor Sobowale’s death were not disclosed in the family announcement.
The family also did not immediately release details of his funeral arrangements.
According to Sowunmi, information concerning the funeral will be communicated at a later date.
Nigeria’s Academic and Media Community Mourns
Sobowale’s death adds to the losses recorded within Nigeria’s academic and media circles and leaves colleagues and members of the communication profession mourning a veteran scholar.
His passing at 85 brings to a close a career associated with communication scholarship and professional engagement in Nigeria.
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