It is with deep reverence that I pay tribute to the memory of my late mentor, teacher, and supervisor, Professor Morakinyo Ajileye Lanre Omole, whose passing two decades ago left a void that remains deeply felt.
Professor Omole was a man of rare distinction—a scholar of repute, a committed trade unionist, and a humanist whose work and life touched countless individuals. As a mentor, he was instrumental in recruiting me into the university and guiding me to my current research goals. Under his watchful eyes, I grew in scholarship, and today, I stand as a Professor by Chair, a testament to his dedication to nurturing younger academics.
He pioneered workers’ education initiatives in Nigeria, championing the cause of equity and justice for the working class. His service as Industrial Relations Officer at the University of Ibadan further underscored his commitment to fairness, dialogue, and institutional stability.
Beyond the walls of the university, Professor Omole was deeply rooted in his community. In his beloved Ogbagi-Akoko, where he bore the respected title of “EGIRIOKE”, he worked tirelessly for the growth and development of his people. His sense of duty to community was matched only by his passion for humanity at large.
Twenty years after his passing, his legacy of scholarship, activism, and community service continues to endure. He lives on in the achievements of his mentees, in the progress of his community, and in the values he embodied—integrity, courage, and compassion.
We remember him with gratitude, honor his memory with pride, and commit ourselves to keeping his legacy alive.
Adieu, Professor Morakinyo Ajileye Lanre Omole.
A teacher, a leader, a community builder, and forever our EGIRIOKE.
PROFESSOR TAJUDEEN AKANJI FICMC, FSPSP
INSTITUTE FOR PEACE AND STRATEGIC STUDIES UNIVERSITY OF IBADAN
MENTEE AND ACADEMIC SON
