Renowned scholar and 1977 Constituent Assembly Member, late Dr. Olusegun Osoba
Respected Nigerian historian, public intellectual and member of the 1977 Constituent Assembly, Dr. Samuel Olusegun Osoba, has died at the age of 92.
Osoba, an indigene of Ijebu Ode, reportedly passed away peacefully at his residence in the early hours of Thursday, May 14, 2026.
His death was announced by the Yusufu Bala Usman Institute in a statement signed by the institute’s Director, Norma Perchonock.
The institute described the late scholar as a committed intellectual whose life revolved around scholarship, national development and the fight against exploitation and neo-colonial structures in Nigeria.
“With heavy hearts but with gratitude for a life lived in the service of scholarship and humanity, the Yusufu Bala Usman Institute announces the death of our Chairman, Dr. Olusegun Osoba, who passed away peacefully today, 14th May 2026, at his residence in Ijebu Ode,” the statement read.
“He was 92 years old. Dr. Osoba was a rare scholar whose whole life was dedicated to teaching and research that was designed to educate his students, colleagues and the general public about the nature of the capitalist system and the structures of neo-colonialism that dominates the Nigerian state, and to propose ways of liberating the country from this odious system in order that its citizens may live their lives free from exploitation and oppression.”
The institute further praised Osoba’s contributions to economic history and political discourse in Nigeria, noting that his academic works challenged systems believed to be hindering national growth and development.
“His work in economic history was groundbreaking in many ways as he sought to expose the actual workings of the economic system that was holding back development in the country,” the statement added.
According to the institute, the late scholar authored several influential books, academic papers and newspaper articles that shaped intellectual debates across Nigeria and beyond.
“One of his major achievements was to author, together with his close comrade Yusufu Bala Usman, The Minority Report and Draft Constitution for the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1976.
“This document has had a profound impact on the various debates and discussions about the way forward for Nigeria.”
The statement concluded with a tribute to Osoba’s enduring legacy and dedication to national progress.
“Segun is gone but he has left an enduring legacy and a shining example for patriotic Nigerians to emulate. Funeral arrangements will be as announced by the family.”
