By Tunji Oladejo
I never physically met Professor Siyan Oyeweso, but we were friends. We met at the USA-Africa Dialogue Series, moderated by Professor Toyin Falola, a Professor of History, University Distinguished Teaching Professor, and Jacob and Frances Sanger Mossiker Chair in the Humanities at The University of Texas at Austin, the United States of America and Bobapitan of Ibadanland. It is a platform for intellectuals to discuss Africa-US relations, politics, history and diaspora issues, fostering a Pan-Africanist community through dialogue and debate. The series involves participants from around the world, including those from the African continent and the African diaspora.
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In August 2014, during a USA-Africa Dialogue Series debate, Prof. Siyan Oyeweso, a renowned Nigerian historian, approached me on the telephone, saying he had closely read my submissions and wanted to know more about me. He noted my writings had an “Ibadan/UI flavour” and were “balanced and blunt”. I replied, “This is Ibadan, and this is how we do it in UI – with pride, excellence and a strong sense of community. UI is more than just a university, it’s a brand that represents the best of Ibadan’s values and traditions. From the historic campus to the vibrant student life, UI embodies the spirit of innovation, intellectual curiosity and cultural richness that defines this great city”. Furthermore, I told him, “Prof., my baseline is TYC – take your choice. Mine is to tell you what’s in my mind; my reader is to take his/her choice”. He laughed, and we became friends, exchanging occasional goodwill messages. Prof. Oyeweso’s initiative showed his academic humility, wisdom, dedication, experience and strength, exhibited effortlessly for the sustainable development of society. I had intended to visit him, but sadly, it wasn’t possible before his passing. His reputation as a foremost Nigerian historian preceded him, and I was humbled by his interest in my work.
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After Prof. Siyan Oyeweso’s Jannazah (Islamic burial rites) on Tuesday, December 2, at Ede, Osun State, I reached out to Prof. Tajudeen Akanji (Abogunde), a specialist in Industrial Peace and Security Education and former Director of the Institute for Peace and Strategic Studies, University of Ibadan. Prof. Akanji, who hails from Ede, confirmed Prof. Oyeweso’s telephone number, which I sent to him for confirmation that the deceased was my brother and friend, and recounted the fond memory we shared with the deceased historian, scholar and university administrator. I had guessed from Prof. Akanji’s tribute, published on Tuesday, 2 December, 2025, that he and Prof. Oyeweso had a close relationship.
Professor Siyan Oyeweso was a distinguished Nigerian historian, scholar and Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, Nigeria, who left an indelible mark on the academic landscape. His passing is a monumental loss, leaving a void in the hearts of scholars, students and the wider community.
Professor Oyeweso’s contributions to Nigerian history are profound, spanning topics such as the Nigerian Civil War, Yoruba political history and Islamic intellectual traditions in Southwestern Nigeria. His works are not just books but maps to navigate our fractured national memory.
A man of unshakeable integrity, Professor Oyeweso lived his life with purpose, marrying culture and faith with enviable grace. He was a Muslim by faith, a Yoruba by tradition and a Nigerian intellectual by a broader call. Interestingly, I did not know he was a Muslim until Prof. Akanji addressed him as Abdulgafar in his tribute. His legacy extends beyond his academic achievements, inspiring generations to come.
Prof. Oyeweso was a historian with vast knowledge. His writings and teachings offered valuable insights into Nigerian history and culture. He exhibited academic humility, willing to engage with others and learn. Prof. Oyeweso inspired generations of students and scholars with his passion for history. He was committed to his work, contributing significantly to Nigerian academia. His experience and wisdom earned him respect in academic circles. The iconic scholar’s writings were known for their balanced and nuanced approach to complex issues. He spoke truth to power, unafraid to share his opinions and insights. Prof. Oyeweso explored new perspectives and ideas in his work and he guided and mentored many students and young scholars, leaving a lasting legacy.
In conclusion, Prof. Siyan Oyeweso was a legendary historian whose contributions to Nigerian history are immeasurable. He played a pivotal role in shaping the field, nurturing generations of scholars with his unbridled passion, honesty and commitment to intellectual rigour. His iconic impartation was marked by fairness, dedication and exceptional intellect, inspiring countless students to pursue excellence in history. His impact on Nigerian academia is indelible, with many prominent historians owing their growth to his mentorship and guidance.
As we bid farewell to this remarkable scholar, I remember his words, “Memory is a duty”. His life was proof of this principle, leaving behind a treasure trove of knowledge, wisdom and inspiration. Prof. Oyeweso’s humility and charm belied his remarkable genius, boundless energy, and incredible productivity. A truly decent human being, he will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Prof. Oyeweso not only groomed historians but also produced professionals across all disciplines. His legacy will live on, inspiring others with his example of kindness, excellence and dedication.
I think Professor Siyan Oyeweso’s legacy can be preserved through various initiatives, including establishing a research centre or institute dedicated to his work and research interests to promote Nigerian history and culture; offering scholarships and grants to students pursuing studies in these fields to inspire future generations; and organising public lectures and seminars to keep his ideas and work alive to foster a community of scholars and enthusiasts. In addition, creating digital archives of his works, lectures and writings to make his contributions accessible to a wider audience, ensuring his impact continues to be felt.
May Allah forgive Prof. Abdulgafar Siyan Oyeweso of his iniquities, expand and illuminate his grave, and grant him Aljanah Firdaus. Aamin.
Tunji Oladejo, JP, mnipr, who writes from the University of Ibadan, is the Chairman of The Progressive Forum, Ibadan (TPFI) via oladejo65@gmail.com.
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