Professor Wale Are Olaitan, former Vice Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), has passed away at the age of 60 after battling a prolonged illness since 2020.
The distinguished academic and advocate for social justice died yesterday, leaving a legacy of excellence in education and leadership.
Born in September 1964 in Ijebu Igbo, Ogun State, Olaitan was a renowned scholar who dedicated his life to societal betterment.
He earned his undergraduate degree in agricultural economics from the University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, and furthered his studies in criminology and criminal justice at Griffith University in Australia.
His career was marked by a deep commitment to social change, beginning with his tenure as vice president of the Students’ Union during his undergraduate years. He later became actively involved in the political movement that heralded Nigeria’s return to democracy.
In 2010, Professor Olaitan was appointed Vice Chancellor of OOU, a position he held with distinction.
However, his tenure was not without personal challenges, including a tragic attack on his Ibadan home that claimed the life of his police orderly.
A prolific writer, Olaitan authored works such as Ideas for Socio-Political Change: A Collection of My Social Media Commentaries, reflecting his dedication to societal progress.
Professor Olaitan is survived by his wife, Dr. Kemi Wale-Olaitan, a senior lecturer specialising in gender representation and feminist literary theories
