Former Oyo State Commissioner for Education and immediate past Federal Character Commissioner representing Oyo State, Professor Adeniyi Olowofela, has expressed deep sadness over the death of the Dean of the Faculty of Administration, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Professor Rafiu Oyesola Salawu.
Olowofela, who is also a former Chairman of Ido Local Government, described the late Salawu as a seasoned professor and his junior at the United Christian Secondary School (UCSS), Omi-Adio, Ibadan.
In a condolence message, Olowofela commiserated with the deceased’s family, the UCSS Omi-Adio community, OAU, Ile-Ife, and other associates of the late scholar. 
“The tragic loss of my junior at UCSS and a seasoned Professor at Obafemi Awolowo University has just been brought to my attention. I commiserate with the family, UCSS Omi-Adio, O.A.U, Ile-Ife and in particular Dr. Zach Adedeji, Chairman Federal Revenue Service who enjoyed tutelage under Professor Salawu. May his soul rest in peace,” he said.
Professor Salawu’s death has thrown the Obafemi Awolowo University community into mourning. He passed away on Sunday, although the cause of his death has not been officially disclosed.
Earlier, the university’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olanrewaju, confirmed the death, saying the institution’s management received the news with profound shock and a deep sense of loss.
According to the university, Salawu made significant contributions to the Faculty of Administration despite serving as Dean for barely a year.
Under his leadership, virtually every office in the faculty was equipped with air-conditioning systems, CCTV security systems and solar-powered energy solutions, aimed at creating a modern, secure and technology-driven academic environment.
Beyond infrastructure, Salawu was remembered as a passionate advocate for students and a bridge-builder who prioritised staff welfare, student advancement and strong alumni relations.
Olanrewaju said the late professor’s approachable and resourceful leadership reflected his determination to leave the faculty significantly better than he found it.
The Vice-Chancellor of OAU, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, on behalf of the Governing Council, Senate, management, staff and students, expressed condolences to the bereaved family and the university community.
Bamire described Salawu as a dedicated academic, accomplished administrator and servant-leader whose brief tenure had already established an enduring legacy of institutional transformation.
The university management prayed that Almighty God would grant the deceased’s family, colleagues, students and the entire OAU community the fortitude to bear the loss.
