Renowned literary scholar Biodun Jeyifo, former ASUU leader, dies at 80 in Ibadan.
According to reports, Jeyifo passed away in Ibadan Oyo State on Wednesday at the age of 80, marking the end of a remarkable intellectual journey that spanned decades and continents.
In a statement announcing Biodun Jeyifo’s death, Andrew Haruna, President of the Nigerian Academy of Letters (NAL), described the renowned scholar’s passing as a profound loss.
He emphasized Jeyifo’s monumental contributions to literature and culture.
Haruna noted that Jeyifo’s departure leaves a significant void in Nigeria’s intellectual landscape and reverberates across the global academic community.
Mourning the irreplaceable legacy of the former ASUU leader.
He noted that the late scholar Biodun Jeyifo’s pioneering contributions to literary studies reshaped African criticism.
These works earned him profound respect at home in Nigeria and widespread acclaim abroad among global intellectuals.
Academic Journey Rooted in Ibadan
Jeyifo was born on January 5, 1946, in Ibadan, Oyo State. He is fondly known as “BJ”, distinguished himself early in life.
Jeyifo’s Early Academic Career
Jeyifo started his academic career at the then University of Ife, now known as Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), before taking up appointments overseas.
He later held senior academic positions at Cornell University and subsequently at Harvard University.
He also served as Professor Emeritus of African and African American Studies and Comparative Literature.
His scholarship deepened global understanding of African literature, even the postcolonial theory and comparative literary studies.
He earned admiration among scholars worldwide.
Jeyifo’s Role in Governance
Beyond the lecture hall, Jeyifo was also very active in university governance and academic advocacy.
He once served as National President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
He played a visible role in the struggle for academic freedom and also help to improved conditions for lecturers in Nigerian universities.
On January 5, the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ), with other intellectual bodies, organized an international symposium in Lagos.
The event celebrated Biodun Jeyifo’s 80th birthday and his lifelong dedication to critical thought and scholarship.
