The Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has expressed deep condolences to the management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, and the family of the late Professor Wale Omole, following the death of the renowned academic and promoter of Yoruba culture.
The Ooni’s condolence message was contained in a statement issued on Friday by Sodiq Lawal, the Senior Media Officer of the Ooni’s Palace, on behalf of Otunba Moses Olafare, the Director of Media and Public Affairs.
Describing his demise as a painful loss to the Great Ife community, the Nigerian academic sector, and the Yoruba race, the Ooni highlighted Professor Omole’s contributions to intellectual development, cultural preservation, and the advancement of higher education.
The late Professor Omole served as Vice-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University between 1991 and 1999, playing a significant role in the institution’s history and its pursuit of academic excellence.
Beyond his contributions to university administration, he was also recognized for his commitment to promoting and preserving Yoruba culture, an area of immense importance to the Ooni, who has consistently championed the preservation of Yoruba heritage, values, and traditions.
The Ooni commiserated with the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, alongside the Governing Council, Senate, Management, staff, students, alumni, and the entire OAU community over the irreparable loss. He also extended his heartfelt condolences to the immediate family, friends, associates, and loved ones of the deceased, praying that Almighty Olodumare grant them the strength and fortitude to bear the pain.
As the Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), the Ooni noted that Professor Omole’s contributions to scholarship, institutional development, and the promotion of Yoruba cultural identity will remain part of his enduring legacy.
He concluded by praying for the peaceful repose of the departed academic’s soul.
