Ex-OAU Vice-Chancellor, Wale Omole, Dies at 84

Former Vice-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Professor Wale Omole, has died at the age of 84.

Omole reportedly died on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, according to family sources cited by The Guardian.

The late academic served as Vice-Chancellor of the university for eight years, between 1991 and 1999, becoming the first alumnus of the institution to occupy the position.

Born to Pa Emmanuel Adedeji Omole and Mama Beatrice Aarinola Omole, he attended Ilesa Grammar School from 1956 to 1962 before proceeding to the University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University.

He later obtained his PhD from the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada, between 1971 and 1973.

Omole attained professorial status in 1980 and, in 1983, became the first alumnus to serve as Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture.

He was appointed Vice-Chancellor on November 30, 1991, and led the institution until 1999.

Beyond academia, Omole served as Chairman of the Editorial Board of The Guardian Newspapers, contributing to the country’s media and intellectual landscape.

He was also recognised for his contributions to agriculture, nutritional biochemistry and health physics, as well as his advocacy for Yoruba culture and ethical values.

His death marks the loss of a prominent figure in Nigeria’s academic and media communities.

Details of his burial arrangements are expected to be announced by the family.

He is survived by family members, colleagues and associates.