“Death is something that happens to all but as Christians, we should be consoled in the fact that Christ overcame death”. These were the words of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kolawole Salako at the commendation service, organised by the University in honour of the late Prof. Olusegun Apantaku, an expert in Agricultural Extension Education from the Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development (AE&RD), College of Agricultural Management and Rural Development (COLAMRUD).
Delivering the tribute on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Bolanle Akeredolu-Ale stated that “The painful departure of Prof. Apantaku has, again, reminded us of the reality of life in which we do not know what happens the next second. It has reminded us that we should ensure a good standing with Our Maker as we might be called anytime”. The Vice-Chancellor consoled the deceased family, friends and loved ones on the demise of Prof. Apantaku, saying we should remember that the worth of a soul is not measured by how the soul died but how the soul lived.”
Lauding the achievements of late Prof. Apantaku, the Vice-Chancellor said the immense contributions of the late don to the development of FUNAAB, his College and Department in particular can never be forgotten. He added that Prof. Apantaku fulfilled his vision, which was to be a renowned Professor of Agricultural Management and Rural Development, making impact and known through teaching, research and community service. The late Prof. Apantaku was described by family, friends and colleagues as a peaceful person in all sense of it, who was always calm, even in the face of turbulent situations, passionate, affectionate teacher and a person of high integrity, honesty and sincerity.
Meanwhile, the Dean, COLAMRUD, Prof. Adewale Dipeolu said the late Professor had achieved a lot within the last 61 years, as he described him as a courageous man. Earlier, Dr. Alphonsus Adebiyi of the Department of Communication and General Studies (COLAMRUD), who gave the sermon, called on all to rededicate their lives to serve God, as no one knows the time death will come.
