Veteran sports journalist Adeolu Johnson dies amid allegations wife fled with medical funds

Veteran Abuja-based sports journalist Adeolu Johnson has died following a critical illness, amid allegations from colleagues that his second wife disappeared with money raised for his treatment, Pulse Nigeria reports.

Sports writer and integrity advocate Abiola Shodiya disclosed the development in a post on X, saying colleagues rallied around Johnson and raised funds for him, even using contacts within the sector.

According to Shodiya, the first batch of donations was sent to cover Johnson’s hospital bills and medication. He alleged that the second payment, which was larger, was sent and the journalist’s second wife, who had access to his bank account, ran away with the money.

Shodiya wrote, “An Abuja-based veteran sports journalist became critically ill. Colleagues came together to raise funds for him, even using contacts within the sector.

“The first tranche of money was sent to him for hospital bills and medications.

“The second tranche, which was a heavier bag, was sent and his second wife who had access to his account ran away with the money.

“The man just died.

“May his soul rest in peace.”

Another colleague, Olujide Olusola, said the woman did not know Johnson had died until someone contacted her, after which his death was confirmed to her.

The circumstances surrounding the alleged disappearance of the funds have not been independently established.