The remains of Alhaji Rahman Olalekan Onike, the Deputy Registrar (Student Affairs) at the Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology (OYSCATECH), Igboora, have been laid to rest at the Muslim cemetery in Oyo Town.
Sympathizers thronged the venue to bid a tearful farewell to a man described as an “illustrious son of Oyo,” a student advocate, and a fearless freedom fighter.
Alhaji Onike breathed his last on Thursday, September 11, 2025. A 3-day Fidau Prayer has been slated for tomorrow, Sunday, September 14, 2025, at the Atiba Town Hall, Akesan, commencing at 9:00 AM.
A Flood of Tributes
Since the news of his passing, tributes have poured in from the academic community, highlighting his legacy as a seasoned administrator and prolific writer.
Prof. Akinola Akinlabi (Rector, OYSCATECH): “We are greatly devastated and shocked by the sudden demise of a highly resourceful staff and former Congregation Representative on the Governing Council. May Almighty Allah grant the institution, family, and friends the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”
Prof. Gbemiga Adewale (Former Rector): Describing Onike as a loyal and committed staff member, Prof. Adewale noted that his legacy of dedication would linger in the minds of many. “I received with deep sadness the news of his passage,” he said.
Prof. Lateef Sanni (Executive Director, NSPRI & Former Council Chairman): Prof. Sanni expressed shock at the loss, extolling Onike’s significant contributions to the immediate past Governing Council. “He was a dedicated administrator. May Allah repose his soul.”
Mr. Niyi Fehintola (Former Registrar): “The institution has lost an astute administrator. His death is shocking.”
A Life of Service and Activism
Until his death, Alhaji Onike was a towering figure in the administrative landscape of OYSCATECH.
- Career: He joined the college as an Administrative Officer II in 2008 and rose through the ranks to become a Deputy Registrar.
- Service: He served as the immediate past Congregation Representative on the Governing Council.
- Legacy: He was known not just as an administrator but as a comrade, activist, and public speaker who invested heavily in the growth of others.
He was a proud alumnus of Saint Andrew’s College, Oyo, Olivet High School, and the University of Ibadan.
Colleagues across various departments—including Deans, Directors, and the Academic Staff of Polytechnics (ASUP)—have continued to register their condolences, describing him as a “unique leader, mentor, and pillar of support.”
