President Muhammadu Buhari has condoled the people of Ayegbaju Ekiti particularly the family of a retired Professor of English and English Literature and former Dean, Faculty of Arts, Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti, Professor Olu David Olagoke.
In a condolence message by his spokesperson, Mr Femi Adesina, on Tuesday in Abuja, President Buhari said Olagoke’s service to the nation would remain indelible.
He also shared the loss with friends and professional associates of the scholar, writer and publisher.
He noted that the deceased “enriched Nigeria’s educational administrative system and curricular with his intellect and wisdom, with evergreen plays like The Incorruptible Judge, Irokoman, The Woodcarver, and Death in the Forest.’’
According to the president, the rich pedigree of the educationist, shaped by years of unwavering commitment to research and teaching, started out as Education Officer at King’s College, Lagos, in 1958.
Professor Olagoke was Lecturer II/I, University of Lagos, 1968-76; Senior Lecturer, 1976-84; Associate Professor of English, University of Lagos, 1984-87.
He was Professor of English and Dean of Arts, Ondo State University, Ado-Ekiti, November 1987.
The president believed that Olagoke, who was Longman Research Fellow, would be remembered for his contribution to knowledge, wise counsels to students and leaders, and exemplary lifestyle of discipline and simplicity.
He prayed the almighty God to receive the soul of the departed, and comfort his family.
Professor Olagoke who was born in January 22, 1934 in Aiyegbaju Ekiti died on Saturday 29th of October, 2022 in Ayegbaju Ekiti at the age of 88.