President , Nobel laureate , and other prominent figures have paid final tributes to renowned literary scholar during burial ceremonies held in Ibadan. Jeyifo, widely known as “BJ,” died on February 11, 2026, at the age of 80, leaving behind a distinguished legacy in African literary criticism, scholarship, and activism.
At the funeral events attended by academics, students, and members of the literary community, speakers described Jeyifo as a towering intellectual whose works shaped the study of African literature and cultural studies. The ceremonies included tributes, a burial service, and reflections on his decades-long contributions to scholarship and public discourse.
In his condolence message, Tinubu described the late professor as an intellectual giant whose writings and advocacy enriched academic thought in Nigeria and beyond. He also highlighted Jeyifo’s leadership role in the , noting that his efforts strengthened the defence of academic freedom and the welfare of university lecturers.
Soyinka also joined members of the to honour the late scholar during the burial rites. Colleagues and admirers remembered Jeyifo as a fearless thinker and mentor whose influence will continue to shape generations of scholars and writers.
