Tragedy struck on Monday as Mrs. Bukola Agbakaizu, a seasoned broadcast journalist with Ogun State Television (OGTV), Abeokuta, collapsed and died while preparing for her afternoon shift at the station.
Her death was confirmed in a statement released by the Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, Mr. Bunmi Adigun, on Tuesday night.
“Agbakaizu, a dedicated staff member of Ogun State Television, tragically collapsed while preparing for her afternoon shift.
Despite efforts to revive her, she was pronounced dead on arrival at the Federal Medical Centre,” the statement read.
Mr. Adigun described her as a dynamic and passionate professional who had significantly contributed to journalism in the state.
“Bukola was a versatile journalist and a passionate comrade.
She previously served as Vice Chairman of the OGTV Chapel and was an integral part of the Wale Olanrewaju-led Executive,” he noted.
Her sudden passing, at the age of 52, has left a deep void in the media community.
She was serving as an ex-officio member of the NUJ Ogun Council until her death.
Mrs. Agbakaizu is survived by two children, her elderly mother, colleagues, and a wide network of friends and admirers.
The Ogun State chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) also expressed shock and sorrow over her demise.
In a statement signed by Chairperson Mrs. Sekinat Salam, the association praised Agbakaizu’s dedication and leadership.
“Ogun NAWOJ received the news of Mrs. Bukola Agbakaizu’s passing with great shock.
Her death comes at a time when her wealth of experience and exemplary leadership were still needed,” Salam said.
She described Agbakaizu as a compassionate and dedicated professional whose commitment to journalism left a lasting mark.
“Her love for the pen profession, her service to humanity, and her devotion to God will forever be remembered.”
The statement concluded with prayers for the repose of her soul and strength for the family she left behind.
“Rest on, the amazon of our profession,” it read.