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Veteran journalist and communication scholar, Idowu Akanbi Sobowale, has died at the age of 85.
Sobowale died on Thursday, October 8, 2026, according to a statement issued by a member of his family, Akinniyi Sowunmi.
His death was described by the family as a significant loss to Nigeria’s communication and journalism community, particularly 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. Our father, Pa Deacon Professor Idowu Akanbi Sobowale, OON, 85, joined the saints triumphant this morning, October 8, 2026,” the statement read.
The family said details of his funeral arrangements would be announced at a later date.
Long Career In Journalism And Academia
Sobowale had a career spanning journalism, communication research and academia, with his work contributing to the development of journalism education and research in Nigeria.
He was a former lecturer at the University of Lagos, where he taught communication research. His academic work focused particularly on research methods and the collection and analysis of data.
His interest in research extended beyond the classroom and into journalism, where he was associated with the use of data and public opinion research to support reporting.
Sobowale later joined Lagos State University as a professor of journalism. He became the pioneer dean of the institution’s School of Communication, serving in the position from 2004 to 2007.
Contribution To Precision Journalism
The late journalist was widely associated with the development of precision journalism and opinion polling in Nigeria.
After returning from Syracuse University in the United States, where he obtained a PhD in 1978, Sobowale established a public opinion polling desk at The Punch.
The initiative reflected his interest in applying research methods and data analysis to journalism. His work contributed to efforts to strengthen evidence-based reporting and the use of public opinion research in the Nigerian media.
Through his work as a journalist, educator and researcher, Sobowale helped connect academic research with professional journalism, particularly in areas involving data collection, analysis and public opinion.
Service In Lagos State Government
Sobowale also served in public administration in Lagos State, taking on roles in the state government.
He served as Special Adviser on Education during the administration of the late Governor Lateef Jakande.
He later became Commissioner for Education during the administration of Bola Tinubu, serving between 1999 and 2003.
His involvement in education administration added another dimension to a career that had already covered journalism, communication research and university education.
National Honour
In recognition of his contributions to national development, Sobowale was awarded the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger, OON, in 2006.
The honour came in recognition of his contributions across his professional career and public service.
His work in journalism and communication scholarship also earned him recognition within Nigeria’s communication community, where he remained associated with the development of the profession and academic research.
Communication Community Mourns
News of Sobowale’s death has been met with sadness within Nigeria’s journalism and communication circles.
His career spanned several decades and included work as a journalist, university lecturer, professor, researcher and public servant.
For members of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals in Nigeria, his death represents the loss of a senior figure who contributed to communication scholarship and professional practice.
The family is expected to announce further details about his funeral arrangements at a later date.
Sobowale is survived by his family, colleagues, former students and members of the wider communication and journalism community who encountered his work during his long career.
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