Veteran Yoruba broadcaster Femi Adio Wonder dies at 52 after long diabetes battle

Seasoned Yoruba radio broadcaster Alhaji Femi Adio, popularly known as Femi Adio Wonder, has died at the age of 52 after a prolonged battle with severe diabetes.

Adio’s career in broadcasting spanned more than three decades. He began as an independent and freelance presenter on Radio Lagos, later moving to its sister station Eko FM. He also worked with Paramount FM in Abeokuta, Ogun State, before turning his attention to film marketing. Before rising to prominence on air, he worked as a professional barber in his youth and built a solid reputation in that trade.

Hailing from Iwo in Osun State, Adio became a familiar and distinctive voice in Yoruba-language radio. His health challenges reportedly intensified in the years after he marked a triple celebration on 12 June 2014—his 40th birthday, the launch of a compilation CD of his radio presentations titled Femi Adio Reloaded, and a nikah with his wife, Ayishat Adio. The events drew notable figures from within and outside the industry, including the then Lagos First Lady, Emmanuela Abimbola Fashola, Shehu Jamiu Amioloun, Hon. Dayo Saka Fafunmi and others. Gospel juju artiste Mega 99 performed, while Bashiru Adisa (Baba Gboin) served as anchor.

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In a March 2025 interview with Punch, Adio spoke openly about the toll the illness had taken. He said he had been battling diabetes for about three years at that point, had been unable to work, and had sold houses, cars and other properties acquired at the height of his success to fund treatment. He retained only the house he occupied in Abule Oko, Ogun State. The condition severely affected his mobility—he described walking as feeling like stepping on nails or broken glass—and left him in constant pain, with periods of weakness and partial paralysis. Doctors had recommended specialist treatment in India at a cost he put at about ₦20 million. He received public support, including a notable donation from Fuji star Alhaji Pasuma (Wasiu Alabi Wonder), as well as contributions from colleagues and well-wishers, though he continued to struggle with ongoing medical bills.

Adio’s death represents a significant loss to Yoruba radio broadcasting. He is remembered for his long service on the airwaves, his distinctive presentation style, and his later work in film marketing. Further details on funeral arrangements were not immediately available.