Tragedy Hits Ogun State Media: Veteran OGTV Broadcaster, Bukola Agbakaizu, Slumps and Dies on Duty

 

The media industry in Ogun State has been thrown into deep mourning following the sudden and heartbreaking death of a respected journalist and broadcaster, Mrs. Bukola Agbakaizu, a staff member of Ogun State Television (OGTV) in Abeokuta.

Bukola, who was known for her vibrant personality, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to journalism, tragically slumped and died while on duty on Monday, May 12, 2025, as she was preparing for her regular afternoon shift at the state-owned TV station.

The shocking incident has left her colleagues, friends, and the entire Ogun State journalism community in a state of disbelief and sorrow.

Confirming the tragic news, the Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, Mr. Bunmi Adigun, released a solemn statement on Tuesday night, May 13, from Abeokuta.

“Agbakaizu, a dedicated staff member of Ogun State Television, tragically collapsed while preparing for the afternoon shift, and despite efforts to revive her, she was pronounced d3ad upon arrival at the Federal Medical Centre,” the statement read.

Bukola Agbakaizu was not just another name in the newsroom. She was a seasoned and versatile journalist who served with dedication and heart. Over the years, she held various positions of responsibility and earned the respect of her peers.

"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.

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

At the time of her passing, Bukola, who was 52 years old, was an ex-officio member of the NUJ Ogun State Council. Her death has not only shaken her colleagues at OGTV but has also reverberated through the wider journalism and broadcasting industry in Nigeria.

She is survived by her two children and her aged mother, who now mourn the sudden and unexpected loss of a loving mother and daughter.

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Ogun State Chapter, also reacted with deep sorrow and disbelief at the news of her death.

“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,”
— said Mrs. Sekinat Salam, the chairperson of NAWOJ, Ogun State.

In her tribute, Salam highlighted Bukola’s admirable qualities and her deep commitment to the journalism profession:

"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,” she stated.

“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.”

The loss of Mrs. Bukola Agbakaizu is not just a personal tragedy for her family, but a significant blow to the journalism profession in Ogun State and beyond. She was a woman of integrity, a mentor to many young journalists, and a beacon of light in the media space.

As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate a life of purpose, passion, and service. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations of journalists to come.

Rest in peace, Bukola Agbakaizu. You will never be forgotten.