The Kwara Council of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has expressed grief over the death of the Vice-Chancellor, Kwara State University, Malete, Prof. Mustapha Akanbi.
This is contained in a statement issued in Ilorin on Monday by the state NUJ Chairman, Abdullateef Ahmed, and Secretary, Omotayo Ayanda.
The statement described the transition of the varsity administrator as heartbroken, painful and utterly shocking with disbelief.
The NUJ noted that the demise of Akanbi came at a time that his vision to turn around the fortunes of the state owned university had begun to manifest.
The union recalled that the late KWASU boss was very modest in his blueprint upon assumption of office as the second substantive vice-chancellor with clear cut areas of focus to make the university one of the best among its contemporaries.
The NUJ added that Akanbi, a one-time Chairman, Ilorin branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), would be remembered for his colossal contributions to scholarship and legal education locally, nationally and internationally.
The union also noted that though the Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) died when his services were most needed in building an egalitarian society for all, but accepted his transition with equanimity.
The NUJ prayed to the Almighty God for the repose of the soul of the deceased and comfort the university community and bereaved family he left behind.
ROYAL NEWS reports that Akanbi died on Sunday evening at the age of 51 after a protracted illness.
