The Baale of Oluyole Estate in Ibadan South West Local Government Area, Yemi Ogunyemi, is dead.
The veteran journalist, who worked with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) for several years, died after a brief illness. His death was confirmed in the early hours of Wednesday.
Ogunyemi was known for his active role in promoting Yoruba culture and traditions. He played a prominent part in the popular Yoruba programme Enbalaya which aired in the 1980s and 1990s, gaining him widespread recognition.
Until his death, he was a respected member of the Ibadan South West Local Government Traditional Council.
Despite battling illness for months, the late broadcaster made a brief return to the public eye on Victory Day, on Tuesday, where he appeared on stage to the delight of fans and admirers.
However, his health deteriorated shortly after.
His son, deputy superintendent of police Wale Ogunyemi, confirmed the sad development in an interview with BBC Yoruba.
According to him, the family made several efforts to save their father’s life, including rushing him to the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan.
“Our father is a true man who loved his children. He brought together all the family and the people, our father was a hardworking and good man.
“May God grant them wisdom, they will be greatly missed,” DSP Ogunyemi said.
Tributes have continued to pour in on social media since the announcement of Ogunyemi’s death. Admirers have been sharing his pictures and offering condolences to the family.
One of the early mourners, Oyo State NUJ chairman Ademola Babalola, described the late Baale as a prominent figure who left a lasting impact on journalism and traditional leadership in the state.
