Oladipo Ademuyiwa: Profile of a Professor of Biochemical Toxicology killed by a hit-and-run driver

Lasun Alagbe

Nigeria, on Sunday, lost one of its diligent scholar, Professor Oladipo Ademuyiwa.

The Professor of Biochemical Toxicology at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeouta, has sent shocking waves round the academic landscape and beyond.

According to his profile by African Rsearch Nexus, Ademuyiwa was a distinguished researcher and academic affiliated withFUNAAB where he contributed significantly to the field of toxicology and environmental health since 1999.

His extensive academic journey includes notable positions at prestigious institutions such as the Indian Institute of Toxicology Research in India, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München in Germany, and Olabisi Onabanjo University in Nigeria.

Ademuyiwa’s research primarily focused on the toxicological effects of environmental contaminants, particularly heavy metals and aflatoxins, on biological systems. His recent publications reflect a commitment to understanding the intricate relationships between exposure to toxic substances and their impact on reproductive health, lipid metabolism, and oxidative stress.

The platform adds: “Noteworthy studies include investigations into the effects of cannabichromene on reproductive function and the biochemical properties of underutilized seed oils, showcasing his dedication to both fundamental and applied research.

“Throughout his career, Dr. Ademuyiwa received sponsorship from various esteemed organizations, including the National Science Foundation and the British Council, underscoring his influence and recognition in the scientific community. His work not only contributes to academic knowledge but also aims to address pressing public health concerns related to environmental toxins in Nigeria and beyond.”

Meanwhile, reports say the accident occurred on the newly rehabilitated Kemta-Somorin Road in Kemta area of Abeokuta on Sunday, February 16, 2025.

Ademuyiwa, a professor of biochemical toxicology in his early sixties, had just alighted from a cab and was attempting to cross the road from the Prof Wole Soyinka end when he was hit by a speeding vehicle. The driver reportedly fled the scene.

Chairman of the Ajebo Road Housing Estate Community Development Association, Dr. Ayo Ajasa, in a statement on Tuesday, described the incident as a preventable tragedy.

He blamed the Ogun State Government for ignoring repeated calls to install speed breakers on the road.

“This unfortunate incident, which occurred on Sunday, February 16, 2025, once again highlights the urgent need for government intervention to prevent further tragedies,” he said.

“It is disheartening that despite our numerous appeals to the Ogun State Government and relevant agencies, no effort has been made to install speed breakers and other necessary safety measures. The government did not hesitate to install speed bumps on the Ilugun end of the road but has continually ignored our pleas to safeguard lives in Ajebo Road Housing Estate.”

Ajasa lamented that the professor’s death was a significant loss to the community and the nation, given his contributions to academia.

To prevent further casualties, he urged the government to immediately install speed breakers and lorry barriers along the road, along with clear traffic signage to caution motorists against reckless driving. He also called for stricter law enforcement to curb excessive speeding within the estate.

“It is unacceptable that a community of law-abiding citizens must endure repeated accidents, near-fatal encounters, and now the death of an esteemed professor, simply due to government inaction.

“Another accident occurred within 24 hours of this tragic incident, proving that this road remains a death trap.”