The Vice-Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Prof. Kayode Oyebode Adebowale has described the death of the 41st Olubadan, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji, Ajeogungunniso 1, has shocking, describing the late monarch as a pillar of support to the nation’s Premier University.
Adebowale, who stated this through a statement signed by the institution’s Director of Communication, Tunji Oladejo, said that the deceased, while alive, never missed an opportunity to offer wise counsel and words of support for the progress of the institution.
Commiserating with the immediate family, Ibadan people on the death of the monarch, Adebowale further described the monarch as a bridge-builder, an enthusiastic investor, father figure, true leader lover of all, a man of peace whose reign remains known for all-round peace in Ibadanland and consummate people’s manager, who contributed immensely to the success of many Nigerians.
The Vice Chancellor stated, “My last engagement with Oba Adetunji was on 16 November, 2021, when he received our Chancellor and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, on a courtesy call, in his Popoyemoja Palace. Kabiyesi demonstrated that he was UI’s father and Chief Landlord. UI was, indeed, honoured and celebrated on that memorable visit. I must say, Kabiyesi Adetunji lived humbly; served humbly; came loving; lived loving; and served loving”.
He said, “Oba Adetunji knew how to serve God; how to serve humanity; how to lead humanity: how to serve others; how to lead others; how to assist others; how to develop others and how to mentor others. He had the true formula of how to lead the community and society. He was a leader of leaders. Our consolation lies in the great deeds of the late Olubadan which are engraved unforgettably in the hearts of women and men. Such deeds, which knew no ethnic or religious boundaries, bear clear testimony to the late Olubadan’s triumph over death”.
“On behalf of the governing council, management, staff, and students of the University of Ibadan, we sincerely commiserate with the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, the immediate family of the late Olubadan, Olubadan-in-Council, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), and all Ibadan indigenes and residents. May Allah forgive him his misdeeds, expand and illuminate his grave. Amen, he concluded”
