There was an outpour of encomiums at the Buba Marwa Auditorium, Main Campus, Ojo, Lagos on Tuesday, 11th July 2023 as the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies held a session of tribute in honour of Late Prof. Lai Oso who passed away on Saturday, 24th June 2023 at the age of 68 years.
The session which started with a procession earlier in the day had in attendance members of the University Mangement, immediate and extended members of late Prof. Oso’s family, friends, staff, students and representatives from various institutions, associations and professional bodies.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, who was ably represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Adenike Omotunde Boyo, in her tribute commiserated with the family, staff, students, friends, and associates of late Prof. Lai Oso.
Prof. Olatunji-Bello described him as a fine Nigerian Philosopher of Education, an Administrator, a friend to all, an inspiration to a new generation of researchers, and above all a brilliant man who selflessly gave his all to the service of the University.
Speaking further, the Vice Chancellor said “…during his lifetime, he contributed hugely as a member of Senate and excelled as a past Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies. This is why even though we grief for his loss, our hearts are gladdened by the fact that he lived an exemplary life”.
The Dean, Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, Prof. Sunday Alawode, in his welcome address appreciated all for joining the Faculty in honoring a father, mentor, teacher and scholar. He added that the programme was put together to celebrate late Prof. Oso who had touched many lives.
Others who spoke at the programme in a glowing tribute to a colossus of the communication discipline were the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olufunsho Abayomi Omobitan; former Dean of the Faculty of Communications and Media Studies, Prof. Rotimi W. Olatunji; Chairman, Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Lagos Council, Mr. Adeleye Ajayi; a representative from the Association of Communication Scholars & Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN), Dr. Oludare Ogunyombo; Chairman/CEO, Channels TV, Dr. John Momoh, ably represented by Mr. Kinglsey Uranta.
The Heads of Mass Communication Department, Anchor University, Prof. Olusola Oyero; University of Lagos, Prof. Adepoju Tejumaiye; Yaba College of Technology, Mrs. Funke Adesanya; Convenant University, Dr. Kehinde Oyesomi amongst many others also gave tributes to the late erudite Professor of Mass Communication.
Barr. Moyosola Oso, son of the deceased gave the vote of thanks.
May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.