Renowned communication scholar and veteran member of Nigeria’s media and communication community, Professor Idowu Akanbi Sobowale, 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.

In a statement titled “Transition to Glory,” Sowunmi described the death as a major loss to Nigeria’s communication community, 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.”

Sobowale was widely recognised as a veteran scholar and prominent member of Nigeria’s media and communication community.

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