THE Nigerian academic community lost two prominent members in Ilorin a few weeks ago.  They are Professor R.O. Lasisi, formerly of the University of Ilorin, and until his death, of Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, and Prof. R. A. Akamidu, of the University of Ilorin.

Lasisi was a professor of History, while Akamidu was a professor of Religion. The two were thorough-breed academics. Lasisi specialised in European History, which he taught with relish. He was discovered early by the Kwara State government, and was saddled with state assignments. He served on many boards, committees and commissions, despite being a non-indigene in Kwara State, as he hailed from Oyo, in Oyo State. Akamidu, on the other hand, specialised in Philosophy.

What made students develop interest in these two scholars was that they were masters in their areas of specialisation. Students marveled at their brilliancy in those days. They were complete gentlemen, meek and considerate.

They did not discriminate on gender basis, victimised students, nor engaged in illicit affairs with the ladies amongst us in order to favour them unjustly.  

Both lecturers taught students to imbibe knowledge inherent in their courses, and not just to pass examinations. Unfortunately, the duo died when they are supposed to be reaping the fruits of their labour, and to be useful to the society in their retirement.

Government and academics have to reconsider their stands on the new retirement age for university lecturers. Retiring at 70 would mean that majority of them would hardly enjoy their lives.

In my own opinion, I think 60 years is okay as retirement age for university lecturers. Therefore, for Professors Lasisi and Akamidu, may God grant them eternal bliss, and give their families the fortitude to bear the loss.

Adewuyi Adegbite,
Apake, Ogbomoso.