Professor Idowu Akanbi Sobowale, a renowned communication scholar and veteran journalist, has died at the age of 85.Sobowale reportedly died on Thursday, October 8, 2026.

His death was announced in a statement issued by his son, Richard Adeyinka Emmanuel.

The statement described the deceased as Pa Deacon Professor Idowu Akanbi Sobowale, OON, and said he “joined the saints triumphant” on Thursday morning.

The statement read in part, “My father, Pa Deacon Professor Idowu Akanbi Sobowale, OON, 85, joined the saints triumphant this morning, October 8, 2026.

“Details of his funeral rites [will] be announced by the family soon.”Sobowale was widely recognised for his contributions to journalism, communication scholarship and media development.

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in due course.