The International Studies Alumni Association, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria have condoled the family of the late Pan-Africanist scholar, Professor Okello Oculi, with a vow to immortalise his enduring legacy.
The Association’s National Public Relations Officer, Alhaji Abdullahi Shuaibu, in a statement on Sunday said a three-man delegation led by the National President, Ambassador Muntari Kaita paid a condolence visit to late Okello’s family’s residence at Apo district in Abuja.
The delegation is made up Alhaji Suleiman Halliru, Board of Trustees Member and Ambassador Enoch Duchi, the National Vice President.
Kaita, who spoke on behalf of the delegation expressed the Association heartfelt condolence over the great loss.
He said: “The members of our Association, who are mostly his students are deeply grieved by the loss of Professor Okello.”
He said late Okello had greatly impacted on members of the alumni, the Department of Political Science and International Studies, ABU Zaria and the entire university system in Africa through his teachings and literary works.
The Alumni President highlighted Okello’s dedication to the principles of Pan-Africanism, international understandings, the promotion of Africa Union (AU) mock summit, and the nurturing of the youth to forge Africa ahead.
According to Kaita: “Okello’s passion for promoting Pan-Africanism and his willingness to share his knowledge and experiences made him a valuable asset to the global academic community.”
He also noted the late scholar’s active participation in the Association’s activities and his unwavering commitment to mentoring graduates and younger generations in line with his Pan- African concept.
Kaita added that the Association plans to explore ways to honour Okello’s legacy through tributes and a memorial event to celebrate his excellence in the academics.
Responding, Mrs. Debra Ogazuma, Professor Okello’s widow, expressed the family’s appreciation for the condolence visit.
She also urged the Association to promote the late husband’s ideals toward enhancing the growth and development of Africa intellectuals and its young talent.
