The Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, and Nigeria’s academic community have been thrown into mourning following the death of the institution’s Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Professor Abdulgafar Siyan Oyeweso, at the age of 64. He was reported to have passed away on Tuesday morning after a brief illness, shortly after undergoing what family sources described as a successful surgery.
His death was formally announced in a statement issued on behalf of the family by Olawale Oyeweso. “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father and brother, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council of Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife, Professor Abdulgafar Siyan Oyeweso who departed this life on Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025 at the age of 64 after a brief illness,” the statement read. The family described him as “a renowned Professor of history, educator and mentor who touched the lives of countless students and colleagues, political associates among others.”
According to the family, the late scholar is survived by his wife, children and other family members. “The departed scholar was survived by wife, children and family members. His remains will be buried in his country home, Ede, by 4pm today after solat Ashri,” the statement added, indicating that funeral arrangements were being carried out in line with Islamic rites.
Professor Oyeweso, widely known in academic circles for his scholarship in history, had built a reputation as an educator, mentor and public intellectual whose work and guidance shaped generations of students and colleagues. The university’s academic community is expected to issue its own tribute in the coming days as colleagues, former students and associates continue to reflect on his contributions to scholarship, institutional development and national discourse.
As news of his passing spreads, tributes are pouring in from within and outside the university system, with many highlighting his role not only as Pro-Chancellor and Council Chair of OAU but also as a leading voice in Nigerian historiography and public life.
