President Bola Tinubu has expressed sadness over the passing of celebrated writer, author and literary scholar, Prof. Kole Omotoso.
He said that Kole’s demise was a big loss to Nigeria, Africa and the literary world in general.
Omotoso died in Cape Town, South Africa on Wednesday at the age of 80 years.
Tinubu said that the deceased was reputed for his commitment and dedication to the socio-political reappraisal of Africa.
He equally noted that respect for human dignity was evident in most of the thought-provoking works of the late Professor.
“I’m deeply saddened by the passing of prodigious writer, author and academic, Prof. Kole Omotoso.
“A literary giant best known for his works of fiction and literary criticism, Prof. Omotoso’s books and collections of short stories radiated beyond the shores of Nigeria. Africa was his oasis.
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“Most of his works harped on Africa’s renaissance and for the continent to win back her lost glory,” he said.
The President said that such passions of Kole would be exemplified for Africa and the West Africa sub-region during his leadership of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government.
“Prof. Omotoso infused his commitment and dedication to socio-political regeneration of Africa and respect for human dignity into most of his literary works and seminal interventions which is why he had such a huge following in Africa and impacted many.
“It is worthy of note that Prof. Omotosho’s background greatly influenced his works. He grew up during the rising tide of radical nationalism and was enamoured by the potential that lay in the future of his country and Africa.
Tinubu said that the deceased works reflect the human condition, and the themes include intergenerational and interracial relationships.
He said Kole particularly became popular for works like ‘Just Before Dawn,” “The Edifice,” “The Combat,” Sacrifice” and “Fela Choice.”
Kole lived most of his life and died in South Africa, where he moved to after his 1988 historical book about Nigeria, ‘Just Before Dawn’ became controversial, leading to his leaving the country.
“His departure is a loss to Nigeria, Africa and to the literary community.
“I offer my sympathy and condolences to his family, friends, professional colleagues and to Gov. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State for the loss of this illustrious son of Africa.
“May they all be comforted and may the soul of Prof. Omotoso rest in perfect peace,” the President said.
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