The Lagos State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (Lagos SWAN), is deeply shocked and saddened by the passing of one of its esteemed members, Adeyinka Adebayo- a head of sports desk at Eko FM/Radio Lagos until his death.
The news of his death as announced on Tuesday night, has left the association and the wider sports journalism community in shock and mourning. Until his passing, Adeyinka Adebayo was a Director at the Lagos State Ministry of Information and an unwavering member of Lagos SWAN. Members have continued to mourn and celebrate Adebayo for his professionalism, commitment, and contributions to the growth of sports journalism in Lagos State.
Reacting to the news, Debo Oshundun, Chairman, Lagos SWAN, expressed deep sorrow over the loss. “I am devastated. ‘Yinka was among my greatest supporters and confidant. He was very close to me, and his passing has left me deeply saddened.
“I called him Woli Agba, I am lost for words in describing what his death means to me personally and Lagos SWAN as an organisation,” Oshundun said. According to Oshundun, the late Adebayo was a multifaceted individual who left a lasting impact on Lagos SWAN members as a mentor, friend and colleague. He believes his legacy of dedication and kindness will continue to resonate within the sports writing fraternity and ensure his memory endures.
Dapo Sotuminu, former Group Sports Editor of Compass Newspapers, said, “Apostle Yinka Adebayo, may your soul rest in perfect peace. May the good Lord take care of the children you left behind. A good guy just left us” .
Ace broadcaster and CEO of AfroSports, Deji Omotoyinbo said “Terrible news A real gentleman. Rest in peace Yinka.” Former Lagos SWAN Chairman and Sports Editor of Vanguard Newspaper, Tony Ubani wrote, “Yinka is, without doubt, the definition of a gentleman I have met. He was compassionate and humble, with a contagious smile. God has called him back to his Kingdom, where there is no pain or cry. Rest in peace, my man of God, as I usually called him.”
Another respected member of Lagos SWAN and current Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Minister of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy, Nneka Ikem Anibeze, remarked that Adebayo was too young to die!
Condolence messages have continued to pour in from members as well as heartfelt condolences to the family and friends for the strength to bear this irreparable loss while they pray for his soul to rest in perfect peace.