Akure, Ondo State – A shocking case of workplace violence has rocked the media industry as Tokunbo Opebi, the acting chairman of Breeze 91.9 FM, Akure, stands accused of physically assaulting a former staff member, Mercy Okafor, following her resignation from the radio station. The incident, which reportedly took place on Tuesday at the station’s premises along Ijoka Road in Akure, has sparked widespread condemnation from media professionals, activists, and the general public.
Allegations of Assault Following Resignation
According to multiple reports, Mercy Okafor, a former On-Air Personality (OAP) and acting accountant at Breeze FM, had formally submitted her resignation weeks earlier, notifying management of her decision to leave the organization. However, when she returned company documents in her possession, Mr. Opebi allegedly confronted her, insisting that she should have remained at the station until a replacement was found.
Eyewitnesses claim that the discussion quickly escalated into a heated argument, culminating in a shocking act of violence. In a fit of rage, Opebi allegedly removed his shoe and struck Okafor on the head before physically attacking her with multiple punches. It reportedly took the intervention of senior colleagues, including Bimpe Dele-Mogaji and Doyin Johnson, to separate the two and shield Okafor from further harm.
A History of Workplace Harassment?
This is not the first time that the Breeze FM chairman has been accused of maltreatment. A source within the station, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that Opebi has a history of hostility towards employees, particularly those who choose to leave the station.
“Tokunbo is responsible for almost all the problems at the station. If you stay, you won’t get paid regularly. If you leave, you might get arrested or falsely accused. He has done this to former engineers, marketers, and even OAPs,” the source lamented.
Several former employees have also reportedly faced arbitrary detentions and harassment upon leaving the station, allegedly orchestrated by Opebi. This pattern of behavior has raised serious concerns about the working conditions at Breeze FM and the treatment of employees, particularly young women in the media industry.
Background of the Victim
Mercy Okafor initially joined Breeze FM as a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member. Her exceptional skills in broadcasting and fluency in Yoruba earned her a permanent position at the station. When the station’s accountant, Bisola Agbayewa, went on maternity leave and later resigned, Okafor was asked to take over the role while still maintaining her duties as an OAP. Balancing both responsibilities, she continued to serve the station diligently until she ultimately decided to resign.
No Response from Management
Attempts to reach Mr. Tokunbo Opebi for his response have so far been unsuccessful. Similarly, the station’s General Manager, Sunday Ajongbolo, has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident. The silence from Breeze FM’s management has only fueled speculation and intensified calls for accountability.
Calls for Justice and Industry-Wide Reforms
Following the shocking revelation, the incident has sparked widespread outrage on social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Many users, including media professionals and activists, have condemned the act and called for a thorough investigation.
Prominent voices in the industry have weighed in, emphasizing the urgent need for stronger protections for employees in Nigeria’s media sector. Human rights advocates and labor unions have also called on the authorities to take swift action to ensure justice for Okafor and prevent similar occurrences in the future.
What Happens Next?
As of now, no official complaint has been filed with law enforcement authorities, but pressure is mounting on Breeze FM’s management to address the issue transparently. There are also calls for industry regulators, including the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), to step in and ensure accountability.
This incident underscores the larger issue of workplace harassment and violence in Nigeria’s media industry, particularly the vulnerability of young female broadcasters. It remains to be seen whether legal action will be taken against Opebi, but one thing is clear—this case has ignited a crucial conversation about workplace rights and safety in the country’s media landscape.
Stay Tuned for Updates
As this story continues to develop, we will provide updates on any new developments, statements from relevant authorities, and potential legal proceedings against the accused.
For more discussions on workplace rights, follow the conversation on social media using #JusticeForMercyOkafor and #BreezeFMScandal.
