Renowned Communication Scholar, Prof Idowu Sobowale, Dies at 85

Nigeria’s communication and media community has been thrown into mourning following the death of renowned communication scholar and veteran media professional, Professor Idowu Akanbi Sobowale, at the age of 85.

Sobowale died on Thursday morning, October 8, 2026, according to a statement issued by a member of his family, Akinniyi Sowunmi.

Sowunmi announced the death in a statement titled, “Transition to Glory,” describing the passing as a major loss to the communication community in Nigeria, particularly members of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals in Nigeria (ACSPN).

The statement read in part:

“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 family said arrangements for his funeral would be announced at a later date.

Sobowale was widely recognised within Nigeria’s media and communication circles as a veteran scholar who contributed to the development of communication scholarship and professional practice in the country.

His death is expected to be widely felt across the academic and media communities, particularly among colleagues and members of professional communication bodies who worked with him during his career.

Further details about his funeral arrangements are expected to be released by the family.