The Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) community has been thrown into mourning following the sudden death of the Dean of the Faculty of Administration, Professor Rafiu Oyesola Salawu.

This newspaper gathered that Professor Salawu passed away on Sunday, though the cause of his death has not yet been officially disclosed.

The University’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olanrewaju, confirmed the tragedy, stating that the institution’s management received the news with profound shock and a deep sense of loss.

He noted that Professor Salawu’s passing is a monumental blow not only to OAU and the Faculty of Administration, but also to the broader academic community, his students, alumni, colleagues, and associates.

He said, despite serving as Dean for barely a year, Professor Salawu left an indelible mark on the faculty through sweeping physical and administrative upgrades.

“Within that relatively short period, Professor Salawu demonstrated an uncommon commitment to excellence and institutional development,” Olanrewaju stated.

According to the management, under his stewardship, virtually every office in the faculty was fully air-conditioned, fitted with Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) security systems, and backed by solar-powered energy solutions to ensure a modern, secure, and technology-driven academic environment.

Olarewaju said, beyond infrastructure, Professor Salawu was celebrated as a passionate student advocate and bridge-builder who prioritized staff welfare, student advancement, and strong alumni relations.

“His approachable and resourceful leadership style reflected a genuine drive to leave the faculty significantly better than he met it,” Olarewaju added.

The Vice-Chancellor of OAU, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, speaking on behalf of the Governing Council, Senate, management, staff, and students, extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and the university community.

Describing the late scholar as a dedicated academic, accomplished administrator, and servant-leader, Professor Bamire noted that his brief tenure had already established an enduring legacy of institutional transformation.

The university management prayed that Almighty God grants his family and the entire OAU community the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss, while honoring a life defined by exceptional service and impactful mentorship.