Ayodele Awojobi

Ayodele Oluwatumininu Awojobi was a Nigerian academic, author, inventor, social crusader and activist. He was considered a scholarly genius by his teachers and peers alike. He obtained his first degree in mechanical engineering with first class honours from the Nigerian College of Arts, Science and Technology, Zaria, in 1962. He then proceeded to the University of London, where he earned his PhD and DSc in mechanical engineering, with his groundbreaking research in the field of vibration. He became the first African to be awarded a DSc in mechanical engineering. He joined the University of Lagos as a lecturer in 1967, and rose to the rank of professor in 1974. He was popular among his students for his simple and effective teaching style, which earned him the nickname "Dead Easy". He was also an inventor and designed a hybrid vehicle called Autonov I, which could move forward and backward without changing gears. He was also a social and political activist, who challenged the perceived corruption and injustice in the Nigerian government. He authored several books on the Nigerian constitution, democracy, and human rights. He died of a heart attack on 23 September 1984, at the age of 47. He was survived by his wife and four children. He was buried at the Ikoyi Cemetery, Lagos, Nigeria. He is remembered as one of the most influential and brilliant Nigerians of all time.