Female journalist slumps, dies while on duty

The journalism community was thrown into mourning on Monday following the sudden death of veteran broadcaster, Mrs. Bukola Agbakaizu, who passed away while preparing for her afternoon shift at the Ogun State Television (OGTV) station in Abeokuta.

Mrs. Agbakaizu, a former Ex-Officio member of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, reportedly collapsed inside one of the studios at the OGTV broadcasting complex located on Ajebo Road.

She was immediately rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Idi-Aba, but was declared dead on arrival by medical personnel.

A colleague at the station said that the deceased had shown no signs of illness prior to the incident. “She was full of life and ready to assume her afternoon duty,” the source said.

It was, however, gathered that the mother of two had a history of high blood pressure and had been consistently taking her prescribed medication.

In response to the tragic news, the Ogun State chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) issued a heartfelt condolence message, describing Mrs. Agbakaizu as a “consummate and dedicated staff” of OGTV.

In the statement released by its Chairperson, Sekinat Salam, NAWOJ expressed deep sorrow over the loss. “Ogun NAWOJ received the news of Mrs Bukola Agbakaizu’s death with a rude shock. Her death came when her experience and exemplary leadership would be needed by the association.

“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,” Salam said.

The association further noted that although she passed at 52, her unwavering faith and service to humanity would leave an enduring legacy.

“We pray that her soul finds peace in the Lord, while the family she left behind will continue to be under protection of the God Almighty. Rest on, the amazon of our profession,” the statement read.

(LEADERSHIP)