The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Professor Abdulgafar Siyan Oyeweso, is dead. He passed away on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at the age of 64, after a brief illness.
His younger brother, Olawale Oyeweso, announced the passing in a statement, describing the eminent scholar as a devoted family man and an accomplished intellectual who dedicated his life to nation-building through academia.
The news of his death has continued to trigger widespread grief across Nigeria’s academic and media communities.
A veteran journalist, Dare Babarinsa, also confirmed the scholar’s passing, recalling his last interaction with the respected historian.
Babarinsa described him as a “decent human being whose humility and charm cloaked his genius,” noting that the professor had recently contributed a chapter to a commemorative book project marking the 10th coronation anniversary of the Ooni of Ife.
In another tribute titled “Adieu, Professor Siyan Oyeweso 1961–2025,” former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan (UI), Professor Abel Idowu Olayinka, expressed shock at the sudden loss.
“I came across the unfortunate and depressing news of your transition on the WhatsApp platform of my Old Students’ Association this morning. It was unbelievable,” he wrote.
Olayinka recounted that Professor Oyeweso had invited him to present a keynote address during a retreat for OAU principal officers in May 2025, and had also attended another programme at the Hezekiah Oluwasanmi Library weeks later.
“You were a very amiable person. Ever so cerebral. One was very proud to call you a friend, brother, and colleague. The strive is over. Rest in perfect peace, dear friend and brother”, he added.
Professor Oyeweso, one of Nigeria’s most respected historians, served as a university administrator, educator, and mentor to generations of scholars. His academic footprint extended across Obafemi Awolowo University, Osun State University, and various national intellectual forums.
He is survived by his wife, children, and extended family.
According to the family, his remains will be interred in his hometown of Ede at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, shortly after the Ashri prayer.
