JUST IN: Veteran communication scholar Idowu Sobowale dies at 85

Professor Idowu Akanbi Sobowale, OON, a respected communication scholar and veteran in Nigeria’s media and communication community, has died at the age of 85.

Sobowale died on Thursday morning, according to a statement issued by a member of his family, Dr Akinniyi I. Sowunmi.

In the statement titled “Transition to Glory”, Sowunmi described the death as a sad development for the communication community in Nigeria, particularly members of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals in Nigeria.

“This is a very sad day for us in the Communication Community in Nigeria and especially for us at the Association of Communication Scholars & Professionals in Nigeria.

“Our father, Pa Deacon Professor Idowu Akanbi Sobowale, OON, 85, joined the saints triumphant this morning, October 8, 2026,” the statement read in part.

The family disclosed that arrangements for his funeral would be announced later.

Sobowale was widely respected for his contributions to communication scholarship and the development of the profession in Nigeria.