OAU Loses Pro Chancellor, Oyeweso, University Community Mourns

By Ayodele Oni

Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, in Osun state has announced the death of its Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Prof Siyan Oyeweso.

A release by the Public Relations Officer of the University, Mr. Abiodun Olarewaju, stated that his death has cast a heavy pall over the University community, leaving staff, students, alumni, and friends of the institution heartbroken.

“In his expression of grief, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Adebayo Bamire spoke with great emotion about the monumental loss, describing the late Pro-Chancellor as a towering intellectual, a rare patriot, and a man whose presence brought wisdom, depth, and stability to every table he sat at.

“Prof Siyan Oyeweso was not only a scholar of continental reputation; he was a gentleman of uncommon grace, humility, and dignity.

“His dedication to Obafemi Awolowo University was total. He carried OAU in his heart, and he served with a passion that inspired all who worked with him. His passing is a colossal loss—one that will echo through our Senate chambers, our classrooms, our governing processes, and the collective soul of our University.”

The Vice-Chancellor further noted that  Oyeweso’s tenure as Pro-Chancellor was marked by exceptional commitment to peace-building, academic excellence, institutional renewal, and administrative harmony.

“His leadership style was calm, inclusive, principled, and richly humane. He brought a new sense of stability and purpose to the Governing Council.

“He was also a bridge-builder, a mentor to the young, a compass for his colleagues, and a steadying influence during challenging moments.

“The University extends its deepest condolences to his family, particularly his wife and children, as well as his colleagues, associates, and the broader academic community who respected and adored him.

“May they find strength and consolation in the knowledge that his life touched countless others and that his legacy is eternally secure.”