NUJ Mourns Veteran Journalist Who Died on Duty
A veteran journalist at Ogun State Television (OGTV), Mrs. Bukola Agbakaizu, tragically collapsed and passed away while preparing for her afternoon shift.
In a statement released late Tuesday by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, it was confirmed that Mrs. Agbakaizu slumped on the OGTV premises and was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre in Abeokuta, where she was pronounced dead on arrival.
Mr. Bunmi Adigun, Secretary of the NUJ Ogun Council, characterized the late journalist as a committed and vibrant professional whose contributions to the media industry will be profoundly missed. “Bukola Agbakaizu, a dedicated staff member of OGTV, sadly collapsed while preparing for her afternoon duty. Despite all attempts to save her, she was confirmed dead upon arrival at the hospital,” the statement noted.
Adigun further emphasized Mrs. Agbakaizu’s role not only as a passionate journalist but also as a dedicated unionist. She had previously served as Vice Chairman of the OGTV Chapel and was an ex-officio member of the current executive committee, led by Wale Olanrewaju. “Her vibrant personality and unwavering dedication to journalism have left an indelible mark. Her absence creates a void that will be difficult to fill,” he added.
At the age of 52, Mrs. Agbakaizu is survived by two children, her elderly mother, as well as numerous colleagues and friends. The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Ogun State Chapter, also conveyed its deep sorrow over her passing. In a condolence message signed by its chairperson, Mrs. Sekinat Salam, the association commended Agbakaizu for her exceptional professionalism and personal virtues.
“Ogun NAWOJ received the news of her death with great shock. It is a painful loss, especially at a time when her wealth of experience and leadership were most needed,” Salam stated, describing the deceased as a woman driven by passion, compassion, and a strong sense of duty. “As a devoted member of both the NUJ Ogun Council and NAWOJ, this mother of two will be sorely missed. Her dedication, warmth, and love for the journalism profession will forever be remembered,” she concluded.
The statement closed with heartfelt prayers for the repose of her soul and comfort for her grieving family. “Though she passed away at 52, her commitment to God and service to humanity will remain etched in our hearts. May her soul rest in perfect peace, and may her family find strength during this time of grief,” she remarked.
The untimely demise of Mrs. Agbakaizu has cast a shadow over the media community in Ogun State, where colleagues and friends are paying tribute to a life characterized by service, excellence, and compassion.
