By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
The Vice Chancellor of the Federal University Lokoja (FUL), Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, has commended renowned scholar and playwright, Professor Olu Obafemi, for deploying literature as a potent tool for social reform and national consciousness.
Akinwumi gave the commendation in his welcome address at the university’s 3rd Colloquium, held in honour of Prof. Obafemi as part of activities marking FUL’s 9th Convocation Ceremony.
He described Obafemi as a transformative figure whose creative and intellectual works have redefined the role of literature in confronting injustice, promoting moral values, and shaping national identity.
“Beyond his creative output, Prof. Obafemi has served this nation with distinction as a public intellectual, mentor, and policy influencer. His conferment with the Nigerian National Order of Merit (NNOM) — the nation’s highest honour for intellectual achievement — attests to his monumental contributions to knowledge, culture, and humanity,” Akinwumi said.
The Vice Chancellor noted that the colloquium, themed around Obafemi’s literary and ideological journey, aligned with FUL’s vision of celebrating knowledge, excellence, and impactful scholarship. He also appreciated the distinguished speakers and discussants whose contributions, he said, “enriched the discourse and reflected the depth of respect Prof. Obafemi commands across the academic world.”
Delivering the keynote paper titled “Agurumo on the Cross: The Social Vision and Revolutionary Aesthetics of Olu Obafemi,” Professor Ayodele Anthony Bamidele of the Department of English, FUL, described Obafemi as “an avowed realist” whose art serves humanity.
“For Prof. Obafemi, there must be a homology between art and society. Art must take on the chore of making society a better place. His creative tapestry consistently seeks to annihilate the ‘Agurumos’ — the oppressive forces — that make life unbearable for the masses,” Bamidele said.
He added that Obafemi’s dramatic works mirror Nigeria’s historical evolution and underscore his lifelong struggle against exploitation and inequality.
Responding, Prof. Obafemi — a dramatist, poet, novelist, critic, and teacher — expressed profound gratitude to the university for the honour.
“My joy knows no bound, seeing the overwhelming love and support shown to me today,” he said.