By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
Veteran broadcaster and immediate past Zonal Director of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Benin Network Centre, Phil Obanor, has died at the age of 58.
Obanor, who had a distinguished career in broadcasting, tragically died in a fatal car accident on the Lokoja-Benin-Auchi road.
The accident occurred earlier this week.
THE CONCLAVE reports that Obanor had gone to Jos to participate in a training for TV personnel as a resource person and passed through Abuja on her way to Benin.
Some friends initially lost contact with her after Abuja, fuelling suspicion of kidnap as bshe became incommunicado.
Her telephone could not be reached, unknown to her callers that she had been involved in a fatal car accident.
Obabor had etired from NTA in November 2024.
Her death marked the end of an era that was characterised by her significant contributions to the development of broadcasting.
She had served as Director at the NTA Benin centre, where her leadership was highly regarded.
Obanor had been a constant facebat NTA for decades, earning respect and admiration for her professionalism, commitment, and invaluable impact on the network’s coverage.
Throughout her career, she built a legacy as a trusted journalist and presenter, known for her sharp news reporting and engaging style on air.
A report quoted sources close to the family to have confirmed that Obanor was laid to rest in a private ceremony shortly after her death.
Tributes have poured in from colleagues, friends, and viewers alike, who remembered her as not only a talented broadcaster but also a warm and compassionate individual.