The Nigerian academic world is in mourning following the sudden passing of one of its most distinguished figures, Professor Abdulgafar Siyanbola Oyeweso. The renowned historian, administrator, and mentor died on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, leaving a profound void in scholarship and institutional memory across the nation.
A Life of Scholarship and Service
Born on February 1, 1961, Professor Oyeweso was a true academic giant. An alumnus of the University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, he earned his B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. in History. He began his teaching career in 1985 as an Assistant Lecturer at Lagos State University (LASU), rising swiftly through the ranks to become a Professor in July 2004. His expertise spanned intellectual history, the Nigerian Civil War, Yoruba political history, and Islamic traditions in Southwestern Nigeria.
His contributions were recognized with his election as a Fellow of the prestigious Nigerian Academy of Letters (NAL) in August 2017. At the time of his death, he served as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Council at Obafemi Awolowo University and was a lecturer at Osun State University.
Tributes from High and Low: The Bridge Builder
Since the news broke, tributes have highlighted Professor Oyeweso's unique role as a connector between different spheres. Former Ekiti State First Lady, Bisi Fayemi, captured this in a poem, 'A warrior goes home,' describing him as a true Omoluabi and a great Griot whose stories will endure.
A poignant testimony came from a former student, Adeola Adejokun. He recounted how, as an undergraduate trying to fund a philosophy magazine called 'Ogbon' at LASU, Professor Oyeweso intervened. Leveraging an old family connection—his grandfather had once been Oyeweso's teacher—Adejokun sought help. The professor not only listened but personally took the students to the then Vice-Chancellor, the late Professor Fatiu Ademola Akesode. This led to university support, enabling a full-colour second edition.
"He opened a door for us that we didn’t even know existed," Adejokun reflected, noting that this act of kindness indirectly paved the way for his later venture, Applause Magazine, and inspired many to enter the media world.
Institutional Mourning and a National Loss
The institutions he served have expressed deep sorrow. Osun State University declared the loss as monumental to the institution, academia, and the nation. In his honour, the university suspended all academic and administrative activities by noon on Tuesday. The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Odunayo Clement Adebooye, praised Oyeweso as a pillar, mentor, and example of scholarly excellence.
The Nasrul-Lahi-L-Fatih Society (NASFAT) also mourned a valued member, highlighting his brilliant work in shaping the NASFAT History Book. The President, Alhaji Ayodeji AbdulWahid AbdulRauf, called him "a rare gem," while the Chief Missioner, Imam Maroofdeen AbdulAzeez Onike, offered prayers for his soul.
Media veteran Dare Babarinsa, who had recently requested a chapter from Oyeweso for a book on the Ooni of Ife, expressed shock, remembering him as a decent human being whose humility cloaked his genius.
The Voice of History Silenced
Perhaps the most evocative tribute came from the renowned scholar, Professor Toyin Falola. He described Oyeweso not merely as a historian but as "History walking around in human form." Falola noted his unique ability to translate history into living wisdom, serving as a bridge of memory in a forgetful world. He portrayed Oyeweso as a man who married his Yoruba heritage with his Islamic faith gracefully, viewing culture as inheritance and religion as a compass.
"The great hall of Yoruba scholars welcomes another giant," Falola wrote, imagining Oyeweso joining the ranks of departed greats like Samuel Johnson and Ade Ajayi. "He did not just pass through the world. He left footprints deep enough for others to follow."
The passing of Professor Siyan Oyeweso at 64 is indeed a sunset at dawn for Nigerian academia. While his physical voice is stilled, his scholarly legacy, his acts of mentorship, and the countless doors he opened for others ensure that his light continues to illuminate the path for future generations.
