The first female Professor of Political Science at the University of Ibadan (UI), Aituaje Irene Pogoson, who passed away on Friday, October 25, 2025, at Banby Specialist Hospital, Akobo, Ibadan, was laid to rest on Friday, November 21, 2025, at the All Souls’ Church Rest Park.
Her interment followed a funeral service held in her honour at All Souls’ Church, Bodija, Ibadan.
In his sermon, the Vicar, Venerable Adepoju Adebayo, reminded the congregation that earthly life is temporary and urged them to prepare for eternity. He noted that humans come into the world with nothing and leave with nothing. He praised the late Professor Pogoson as a woman of virtue and a devoted Christian who served faithfully in the children’s department for about 40 years.
Addressing the bereaved husband, he acknowledged that no one could truly understand his pain, praying that God would comfort him and the children.
Earlier, a service of songs had been held at the Chapel of Resurrection Hall, University of Ibadan, where colleagues, friends, associates, and family members shared glowing testimonies about the deceased.
In his tribute, her husband, Professor Ohioma Ifounu Pogoson, described his late wife as the best decision he ever made in life. “Even now, Aitu, I am saying it again: you are, and will remain, the best decision I ever made. I love you to bits,” he said.
Her daughter, Iwaoya, described her as her anchor, best friend, and confidant who always listened and cared. She recalled how her mother was ever-present, celebrated both big and small victories, and constantly prayed for her children. She added that her mother’s faith, wisdom, and love remain guiding lights in their lives.
Another daughter, Ozien, expressed gratitude for her mother’s unwavering love, prayers, and guidance through every stage of life. She described the late professor as kind-hearted, gentle, joyful, and a true Christian who embodied the virtues of love, grace, and forgiveness. “You are love, Mum—easy, pure, and undiluted,” she said.
The youngest daughter, Esesua, spoke emotionally about her mother being her best friend, confidant, and prayer warrior. She described the profound bond they shared and the difficulty of coping with her passing. “My heart is shattered… I love you,” she concluded.
Dignitaries at the funeral included the District Overseer of The Apostolic Faith Church, West and Central Africa, Reverend Isaac Adigun, and his wife, Stella Adigun; the Vice-Chancellor of UI, Professor Kayode Adebowale; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Olamakinde Olapegba; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Juwon Arotiba; former UI Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olufemi Bamiro; former DVC (RISP), Professor Oluyemisi Bamgbose (SAN); and a former Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Ayodele Adigun.
