Widow of late investigative broadcaster Kola Olawuyi dies

Abimbola Olawuyi, widow of late investigative broadcaster and journalist Kola Olawuyi, has died, nearly two decades after the passing of her husband, bringing fresh grief to one of Nigeria’s most respected broadcasting families.

Family sources confirmed that Abimbola died on Monday morning after a brief illness.

A member of the Olawuyi family, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said she passed away peacefully after falling ill.

Her death comes 19 years after the demise of Kola Olawuyi, the renowned investigative journalist whose pioneering work in crime and investigative broadcasting left an enduring mark on the Nigerian media landscape.

Widely regarded as one of Southwest Nigeria’s most influential broadcasters, Kola Olawuyi rose to prominence through his popular radio and television programmes, Iriri Aye (Experiences of Life) and Nnkan Nbe, which exposed criminal activities, ritual killings, fraud and other social vices. His fearless style of investigative reporting earned him widespread acclaim and established him as a respected advocate for justice and accountability.

Following her husband’s death, Abimbola largely stayed away from public life, dedicating herself to raising their four children while keeping the family together through years of personal sacrifice.

According to the family source, she remained the pillar of the household, shouldering the responsibilities left behind after the death of the veteran broadcaster.

“Abimbola has been a pillar of strength for the family. Her death is really painful. She has been taking care of the family and the four children left by her husband, Kola Olawuyi, and now the children are orphans. Only God knows what lies ahead for them. I am deeply pained,” the family member said.

Relatives described her as a devoted mother whose resilience, quiet strength and unwavering commitment sustained the family despite the challenges that followed the loss of her husband.

Family members said her passing has left relatives, friends and well-wishers devastated, as many regarded her as the steady force behind the Olawuyi family over the past 19 years.

They added that funeral arrangements would be announced at a later date.

Kola Olawuyi is remembered as one of the pioneers of investigative broadcasting in Southwest Nigeria. Through his acclaimed programmes, he used storytelling and investigative journalism to expose crime, social injustice and other societal issues, earning a lasting place in the history of Nigerian broadcasting.

With Abimbola’s passing, the Olawuyi family has suffered another profound loss, closing another chapter in the legacy of one of the country’s most respected media families.