In a heartfelt tribute, Prof. Mohammed Kuta Yahaya honored the memory of his close friend and former Vice-Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Prof. Wale Areola Olaitan, who passed away on Monday, March 24 at the age of 60. Olaitan, a renowned scholar in political theory and state-society relations, left an indelible mark on the academic community and beyond.

"Mourning Comrade Prof. Wale Are Olaitan is especially difficult for me, as I never expected his passing so soon," Yahaya shared, reflecting on the shock and sadness surrounding Olaitan's untimely death. He recounted the last conversation they had, where Olaitan requested a link to Yahaya's university lecture, emphasizing the vibrant intellectual exchange that characterized their relationship.

Their collaboration began in the early 2000s while working as consultants for UNICEF, where they and a team of scholars created a manual for the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) of HIV. "Our journey was marked by tireless commitment and camaraderie," Yahaya recalled, noting that their collaborative efforts impacted many lives across Nigeria.

Prof. Yahaya remembered Olaitan's optimism despite facing challenges, including his unjust termination as Vice-Chancellor due to political reasons. "His protracted illness was undoubtedly a heavy blow to our movement, yet he remained in high spirits whenever we spoke," he stated, highlighting Olaitan's resilience and unwavering dedication to service.

After his tenure at OOU, Yahaya invited Olaitan to IBB University, where he served as a Visiting Professor for five years. "He accepted the offer, and his contributions had a significant impact," Yahaya explained. His return to academia allowed him to share his wealth of experience with both staff and students, reaffirming his commitment to education.

Yahaya fondly reminisced about their time together, particularly a UNICEF assignment in Ogoniland that solidified their bond. "That journey was the beginning of a deep and lasting bond with Prof. Wale," he explained, sharing anecdotes that underscored the trust and respect they had for one another. "I called him 'Walynton,' and he called me 'Mo.' He was a complete gentleman."

Their discussions frequently revolved around Nigeria’s political landscape, embodying their shared commitment to the nation’s progress. "Wale was a true patriot, and our conversations centered on ideas of national progress and cohesion," Yahaya noted.

As many who knew Olaitan express their grief, Prof. Yahaya emphasized the significance of his friend's legacy: "Posterity will judge us all, and Wale will be positively remembered for what he stood for. His legacy of good works, scholarship, simplicity, and unwavering commitment to friendship and humanity will not be forgotten."

During a recent visit to General Ibrahim Babangida, Yahaya shared the news of Olaitan's passing. "His reaction was heartfelt, and he asked me to extend his deepest condolences to Wale’s family," Yahaya recalled, emphasizing the widespread respect Olaitan commanded among prominent figures.

Prof. Yahaya will attend Olaitan's burial in Ijebu-Igbo on April 4, a final tribute to his esteemed friend. "I wish to express my profound appreciation to colleagues, associates, friends, and sympathizers for the overwhelming outpouring of love following his death," he remarked. "His impact will be felt for generations to come."

As he bids farewell to a treasured friend and mentor, Yahaya poignantly concludes, "Adieu Walynton!"