By Adewole Mujeebat
Vicki Corona once said in one of his life-learning quotes: “Life is not measured by the number of breaths that we take but by the moments that take our breath away.” As if he had Professor Muhammad Akanbi on his mind, Prof. Muhammad’s life was dedicated to active service to humanity.
The late Vice Chancellor of the Kwara State University, Malete was a thrilling academia, who possessed a high sense of reasoning and sound judgment. He is an astounding man who, within a short period of time, reached the peak of humility and brilliance.
One cannot but love Professor Akanbi’s crafts because of his exhilarating character. He has been described by many as a lover of good things who gives support to people in as much as it is a positive mission.
After his assumption as the VC, the higher institution of learning experienced development in all fonts. There was a compelling and continual flow of achievements and good news. Yet, Death snatched him from us. The ineffable sadness of the demise of Professor Muhammad is disheartening, but who are we to question Almighty God’s decision.
To many, Professor Muhammad was as incorruptible like his late father (Justice Mustapha Akanbi). He was a consistent man with his actions and words. He loves sharing ideas to people, especially the youths. He would also be remember as a man who will bring down himself to our level and played his part so well.
If I could remember vividly, my first encounter with him was in 300 level, 2019 when he visited my faculty. I had the opportunity to talk to him personally about the issues we had in the on result grading coupled with other plights which he promised to do something about. A man of his word like him, the situation definitely changed for good afterwards.
His promise to student of the great citadel of learning was to take the university to a lofty height. But death, who has it all struck and take him away.
Importantly, the reality of life is that: days and night alternate. we live, we die and when all is said and done, we appreciate everyday, death fire its arrows. Whoever escapes the arrow today will surely be hit another day, we will not be here forever.
Professor Muhammad Mustapha Olaroungbe Aremu Akanbi SAN lived a life full of impact. He came, he saw and he conquered. He did his bit to humanity which will endure in the annals of time. And to us, he is like a diamond, he will forever be in our memories. May God forgive him of his iniquities and grant him a beautiful repose. He was such an Enigma.