Ogun journalist, Bukola Agbakaizu collapses, dies at 52

Bukola Agbakaizu, a journalist with Ogun State Television (OGTV), Abeokuta, passed away on Monday after collapsing while getting ready for her afternoon shift.

Her death was confirmed in a statement issued Tuesday night by the Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, Mr. Bunmi Adigun.

The statement read: “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 paid tribute to her journalistic contributions and union service.

“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,” he said.

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

At the time of her passing, Agbakaizu, aged 52, was serving as an ex-officio of the NUJ Ogun Council.

She is survived by two children, her aged mother, and a host of friends and colleagues.

The Ogun State Chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) also expressed deep sorrow at her sudden death.

In a statement signed by its chairperson, Mrs. Sekinat Salam, the association wrote: “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 commended Agbakaizu’s dedication and professional spirit.

“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.

The statement further added: “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.”