At a solemn ceremony held on Friday, July 14, 2023, the Former Dean of the School of Communication and Media Studies, Lagos State University (LASU), Professor Lai Oso, was laid to rest, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be cherished.
Serving as the Dean of the school from 2011 to 2015, he played a pivotal role in shaping the curriculum and fostering a culture of excellence within the institution; but met with an untimely demise in a car accident while returning from a conference in Abraka, Delta State.
Prof. Oso, whose burial took place in Sagamu, Ogun State, where family, friends, and colleagues gathered to pay their final respects had a profound impact on the academic and professional landscape of media in Nigeria.
Born as Muraino Olayiwola Oso, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication from the University of Lagos before pursuing a Master’s degree in International Relations at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. He was awarded a Federal Government scholarship for his doctorate in Mass Communication at the University of Leicester, England, in 1977.
Prior to his academic career, Prof. Oso worked as a reporter, lending his voice to both radio and the News Agency of Nigeria. His experience in the field provided him with valuable insights into the practical aspects of journalism, which he shared with his students and colleagues.
Throughout his career, Prof. Oso imparted his knowledge and wisdom to students at various institutions, including the Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, Caleb University, Imota, Lagos, and the Lagos State University, Ojoo. Colleagues and students remember him as a scholar who inspired others to pursue knowledge and continuously explore new frontiers of understanding.
As the pioneer President of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN), Prof. Oso spearheaded efforts to promote the field of communication and provided a platform for scholars and professionals to collaborate and share their expertise. His dedication and unwavering commitment to the advancement of media development earned him great respect in academic and communication circles.
With numerous publications in esteemed journals, Prof. Oso’s expertise in media and communication was widely recognized. His research and writings played a pivotal role in shaping the discourse on journalism, media governance, political communication, development communication, and theory.
However, The news of his passing sent shockwaves through the academic community, leaving behind a profound sense of loss. Colleagues remember him as a humble and generous man of exemplary character, beloved by many.
One of his colleagues, Executive Director, the International Press Centre (IPC), Mr. Lanre Arogundade, said Professor Oso was a scholar who encouraged others to become scholars. He constantly explored new frontiers of knowledge and was never tired of writing.
Moreso, the Executive Director, Media Career Development Network (MCDN), said, Prof Lai Oso will forever be remembered for being an erudite communication scholar and media professional. His invaluable contributions to media development stand him out.
As the community mourns the loss of Prof. Lai Oso, they also celebrate the legacy he leaves behind. His profound contributions to the development of communication and mass media in Nigeria will forever serve as testaments to his memory.
The thoughts and prayers of all who knew him are with his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.
