The media community in Oyo State has been thrown into mourning following the death of a renowned broadcaster and Deputy Director at the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS), Mrs Bukola Akintade.
Akintade’s death, which occurred on Friday, April 17, 2026, was announced by colleagues on social media, sparking widespread grief and disbelief among journalists and associates.
Her demise was described as shocking, as there were no prior signs of illness or any incident that could have suggested such an abrupt end. A staff member of the corporation revealed that the late broadcaster had attended a social event just days earlier.
“She even attended a party on Wednesday,” the colleague said, underscoring the unexpected nature of her passing.
Tributes have since poured in from colleagues and associates, who described her as vibrant, diligent, and committed to her profession.
A former Chairman of the NUJ BCOS Chapel, Pastor Oladele Adewole, expressed deep sorrow over her death, saying, “Adebukola, could it be that the news isn’t true? How could you have left without a word? Adebukola Akintade was vibrant, diligent, and endured much without complaint. A shining light extinguished too soon. May peace be with your soul. May your family and loved ones find comfort in God during this challenging time.”
Also mourning her, Olusegun Ogbugbayi described the news as devastating, noting that her death came as a heavy blow to those who knew her. He prayed for strength for her husband and loved ones to bear the loss.
In a related development, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, paid a condolence visit to BCOS to sympathise with the management and staff over the loss.
The Chairman of the Council, Mr Akeem Abas, led the delegation, describing Akintade’s death as painful and a significant loss to the journalism profession in the state.
During the visit, Abas presented a condolence letter and paid glowing tributes to the late broadcaster, describing her as a dedicated journalist whose professionalism and commitment to duty left an enduring legacy.
He noted that Akintade was a voice of truth whose contributions positively impacted society, adding that she would be greatly missed by colleagues and the wider journalism community.
Responding, the Chairman of BCOS, Chief Dotun Olaitan, described the late broadcaster as lively, peace-loving, and dutiful, stating that her sudden death came as a rude shock to the corporation.
She, however, urged journalists to prioritise their health to remain fit for service.
The NUJ delegation also visited the Director of News and Current Affairs, Mrs Bunmi Oyedemi, and members of the newsroom to commiserate with them during the period of mourning.
Mrs Akintade, a respected newscaster and former Treasurer of the NUJ BCOS Chapel, is remembered for her professionalism, dedication, and impactful contributions to broadcasting in Oyo State.
