Tragedy as Veteran Journalist Slumps, Dies Before Shift

The Ogun State media community has been thrown into deep mourning following the sudden death of Mrs. Bukola Agbakaizu, a seasoned broadcast journalist with Ogun State Television (OGTV), Abeokuta. The tragic incident occurred on Monday as she prepared for her afternoon shift at the state-owned television station.

Her untimely death was confirmed in a statement by the Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, Mr. Bunmi Adigun. According to the statement released Tuesday night in Abeokuta and reported by Vanguard, efforts to revive her were unsuccessful.

“Agbakaizu, a dedicated staff member of Ogun State Television, tragically collapsed while preparing for afternoon shift, and despite efforts to revive her, she was pronounced dead upon arrival at the Federal Medical Centre,” Adigun said.

The late journalist, aged 52, was renowned for her professionalism, versatility, and unwavering dedication to the journalism profession.

She previously served as Vice Chairman of the OGTV Chapel and held the position of ex-officio in the NUJ Ogun State Council until her death.

“A versatile journalist and a passionate comrade, Bukola served as a former Vice Chairman of OGTV Chapel and was an invaluable member of the Wale Olanrewaju-led Executive,” Adigun added.

“Her vibrant spirit and commitment to journalism will be sorely missed, leaving an irreplaceable void in our community.”

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Ogun State Chapter, also expressed profound grief over Agbakaizu’s death. In a heartfelt tribute, the chairperson, Mrs. Sekinat Salam, described her as a shining example of professionalism and leadership.

“Ogun NAWOJ received the news of Mrs. Bukola Agbakaizu with a rude shock. Her death came when her experience and exemplary leadership would be needed by the association,” Salam said.

“As a dedicated member of NUJ, Ogun State Council and NAWOJ, Ogun State chapter, the mother of two will be sorely missed by all. Her compassion towards others, dedication, love, and passion for the pen profession will always be remembered and cherished by all.”

The association further emphasized the lasting legacy she leaves behind.

“Though she passed on at the age of 52, her dedication to God and service to humanity will continue to keep her in our memories for a long time to come.”

“We pray that her soul finds peace in the Lord, while the family she left behind will continue to be under the protection of God Almighty. Rest on, the amazon of our profession.”

Bukola Agbakaizu is survived by her two children, aged mother, colleagues, and a host of friends and admirers who will forever remember her as a beacon of commitment in the media industry.