The internet woke up heavy again.
Barely a day after the heartbreaking news of the demise of a popular radio presenter in Ibadan Kola Oladipo popularly known as Mr Niceguy, the airwaves have once more been thrown into mourning. Two losses, too close, too painful — a reminder that life, no matter how vibrant, remains fragile.
Mr Niceguy was more than a familiar voice on radio. He was warmth through the speakers, laughter during traffic jams, and companionship for countless listeners who found comfort in his presence. His passing has left a silence that words struggle to fill, and the outpouring of tributes online shows just how deeply he touched lives across the industry and beyond.
Once again, timelines are flooded — not with birthday wishes or celebration posts — but with candle emojis, heartfelt messages, and memories shared in disbelief. It raises a quiet question many are asking: why do tribute messages trend more than happy birthdays? Perhaps it is because we often realise the value of people only when their voices go quiet.
In Yoruba wisdom, they say:
“Òkú ń sunkún, Òkú ní gbogbo wa; Ọdún àti Ọjọ́ ni gbogbo wa ò mọ.”
(The dead are crying, yet we all belong to death; it is only the day and the year we do not know.)
The broadcast industry has lost a gem. Ibadan has lost one of its own. And listeners have lost a friend they may never have met, but deeply knew.
As tributes continue to pour in, may this moment remind us to celebrate people loudly while they are still here, to say kind words early, and to cherish every shared moment.
Rest in peace, Mr Niceguy.
Your voice may be gone from the airwaves, but your impact will continue to echo in hearts for a long time.
