The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Professor Abdulgafar Siyan Oyeweso, has died at the age of 64.
He passed away on Tuesday after a brief illness.
The death of the renowned academic was announced in a statement on Tuesday by his younger brother, Olawale Oyeweso, who described him as a devoted family man and an accomplished intellectual.
Veteran journalist, Dare Babarinsa, also confirmed the passing of the respected historian, recounting his final interaction with him in an emotional social media tribute.
In a post on his Facebook page, Babarinsa wrote: “Few weeks ago, I requested my friend, Professor Siyan Oyeweso, one of our country’s leading historians and the Pro-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, to contribute a chapter in a book we are doing to commemorate the 10th coronation anniversary of our father, the Ooni, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II. He acted quickly and sent his essay. I called his phone this morning, only to be informed that Oyeweso died today, Tuesday, December 2, 2025!
“Oyeweso was a decent human being whose humility and charm cloaked his genius and prodigious energy and productivity. He will be sorely missed. May his soul rest in peace!”
Oyeweso was widely regarded as a distinguished historian, educator and mentor who made significant contributions to scholarship and university administration.
He is survived by his wife, children and extended family.
His remains will be buried in his country home in Ede at 4pm on Tuesday, shortly after the solat Ashri.
