Professor Idowu Akanbi Sobowale, a renowned communication scholar and veteran member of Nigeria’s media and communication community, has died 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.

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The family statement, titled “Transition to Glory,” described his passing as a major loss to the communication community in Nigeria.

Sowunmi particularly highlighted the impact of Sobowale’s death on members of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals in Nigeria.

“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,” the statement said.

The family identified the deceased as Pa Deacon Professor Idowu Akanbi Sobowale, OON, and confirmed that he died on Thursday morning.

His death marks the loss of a veteran whose career was closely associated with Nigeria’s media and communication sector.

Members of the communication community are expected to mourn the scholar’s passing and reflect on his contribution to the development of communication scholarship and professional practice in the country.

The family said details of his funeral arrangements would be announced at a later date.