By – Aduwo Ayodele
Principal Officers of the University of Ibadan, led by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Professor Aderonke Baiyeroju on Friday, May 25th 2024 paid a condolence visit to the home of Emeritus Professor Ladipo Ayodeji Banjo over his demise.
Late Professor Ayo Banjo was the University’s longest-serving Vice Chancellor.
Speaking, Professor Baiyeroju explained that the visit was made on behalf of the Council, Senate, Congregation, staff, and students of the University of Ibadan.
She explained that the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode Adebowale, and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration, Professor Peter Olapegba, were away on official assignments, adding that the Management would repeat the visit when the Principal Officers are all on ground.
Professor Baiyeroju noted that Emeritus Professor Banjo lived a worthy life as he had reached the ripe age of 90 years before his demise.
“Emeritus Professor Banjo led a fruitful long life and was able to leave legacies of hard work and goodwill. Many are proud to be associated with Professor Banjo” Professor Baiyeroju said.
The visiting principal officers were received by Mr. Gbenga Adeogun, a grandson of the deceased who disclosed that Emeritus Professor Banjo died in his sleep in the morning of Friday, 24 May, 2024, at the age of 90.
Consoling, the Registrar, Mr. Ganiu Saliu prayed for the wellness of the entire family, the University of Ibadan family, other academic family, and Nigeria as a whole.
Emeritus Professor Ayo Banjo was a distinguished scholar, outstanding administrator, mentor, author, and sportsman .
Late Professor Banjo served as a living repository of cultural memories, passing down traditions, values, and events that shape collective identities.
Professor Banjo is remembered as the longest serving Vice-Chancellor between the years 1984 and 1991.
Other members of the team were: Professor Oluyemisi A. Bamgbose, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research Innovation and Strategic Partnerships; Mr Ganiu Oke Saliu, Registrar; Dr. Mercy A. Iroaganachi, University Librarian; and Mrs Adejoke O. Akinpelu, the University’s Public Relations Officer.