Abimbola Olawuyi, Widow of Broadcaster Kola Olawuyi, Dies at 61

​The Olawuyi family and the Nigerian media community are in mourning following the passing of Mrs. Abimbola Olawuyi, the widow of the legendary investigative broadcaster, Kolawole Olawuyi. She reportedly passed away on Monday morning following a brief illness, marking the end of a quiet but resolute life dedicated to family and legacy.

​Her death comes nearly two decades after the passing of her husband, who died on March 3, 2007. Since his untimely demise at age 44, Mrs. Olawuyi maintained a low profile, steadfastly focusing on the upbringing of their four children and safeguarding the memory of her husband, whose groundbreaking radio and television programmes—Iriri Aye and Nnkan Nbe—redefined investigative journalism in Southwest Nigeria.

​Family sources described Mrs. Olawuyi as a “pillar of strength” who navigated the immense challenges of single motherhood with grace. Her unwavering commitment to keeping the family unit intact and preserving the professional legacy of her late husband earned her deep respect among relatives and associates.

​”Abimbola was the backbone of this family,” a family representative noted. “For 19 years, she shouldered the responsibilities left behind by Kola with remarkable resilience. Her loss is profoundly felt by all who knew her.”

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​Kola Olawuyi remains a towering figure in Nigerian journalism, famously known for his fearless, inquisitive approach to unearthing societal ills, ranging from criminal conspiracies to ritualistic activities. His death in 2007 left a void in the media landscape, one that his wife helped fill with her quiet dedication to the children he left behind.

​As the family prepares to lay her to rest, tributes have begun to pour in from friends and colleagues who remember her as a selfless and devoted matriarch. Burial arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.

​Remembering a legacy

​This video provides historical context and personal reflections on the life and impact of Kola Olawuyi, whose legacy his late wife dedicated her life to preserving.