Untimely and Shocking End
In a devastating turn of events, the literary world and academia have been left mourning the loss of Professor Abubakar Othman, a distinguished scholar and accomplished author. The 67-year-old professor, known for his profound work in the field of Literary Psychoanalysis, met an untimely end earlier today in a car accident in Adamawa.
Professor Abubakar Othman was a luminary figure in the literary landscape of Nigeria, particularly in the realms of African poetry and creative writing. He held a PhD in Literary Psychoanalysis and had been a dedicated faculty member at the University of Maiduguri for several decades. Born in the serene suburban town of Madagali in Adamawa State, Othman’s academic journey started with a degree in Literature from the University of Maiduguri and later included studies at the Ahmadu Bello University (A.B.U.) Zaria.
Prolific Author, Passionate Educationist
Othman was not only a prolific educator but also a prolific author. Some of his notable works included “The Palm of Time” (2000), “The Passions of Cupid” (2013), and “Blood Streams in the Desert” (2013). These works showcased his exceptional talent and deep understanding of literary expression, captivating readers with their poetic and thought-provoking narratives.
Beyond the confines of the classroom and the written word, Abubakar Othman was also a passionate advocate for the importance of education in Nigeria. During the prolonged standoff between the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) in 2022, he used his social media platform to express concern over the deteriorating state of university education in the country. In a Facebook post, he offered his own published and other books to those who still believed in the value of education, even going so far as to let them determine the price.
“With the destruction of university education in Nigeria today, and the starving of university lecturers by the insensitive APC government,” he wrote, “I no longer need these books. Those that still believe that education in Nigeria is important, please come to my office at the address below and buy these books at your own price l am available in the office from 9am to 5pm daily including weekends. Access Address: Department of English and literary studies, University of Maiduguri. Sign. Dr Abubakar Othman.”.
Administrative Roles
Othman’s dedication to education extended to his administrative roles, as he served as the Commissioner of Information for Adamawa State during the Boni Haruna administration. His contributions to both the academic and political spheres left a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of working with him.
As a renowned author, Othman’s literary legacy is secure. His books, including “The Palm of Time” and “The Passions of Cupid,” will continue to inspire readers and scholars alike. His enthusiasm for literature and his deep appreciation for the power of poetry were infectious, and his work will be cherished for generations to come.
Profound Loss to Many
In a tribute on Facebook, poet and activist, Ba Sabouke said, “Dr. Othman Abubakar was a kind mentor, teacher and friend. He was always there for me, with encouragement, moral and intellectual support. He was always there for me and my writing. Death is rude. I shared the review of my book written by Ibraheem Uthman with him last night only to come online now and see the shocking news of his death. From Allah we come, to Him is our return! May Allah be pleased with him and forgive his shortcomings. Oh Prof!”
On the part of another mentee of Othman’s, Ikasion God’swill, the late academic was a library just burnt down. “A mysterious fire burnt down a Nigerian library birth from Adamawa State. Devoured it to ashes. And none can, even in billions, billions, billions and billions years to come, shall be possess or breathe in the carbon dioxide of the ashes, nor of any with which this library was made up of. For he was a library to libraries. Although, his name shall be great green in the literary planet. Because of his contribution to universities, polytechnic, colleges, secondary schools through his works .
“He gave birth to literary giants.
His transition is evidence of meta phase of life.
“I am highly indebted to him for his psychoanalytical, critical and analytical teaching. Deeper interpretation of all genre of the discipline. Which birth me accurately within my Mental fitness.
I shall only see, hear and be with him through his works. Dr Abubakar Othman, a Man of letters, rest with our Lord.”
Professor Abubakar Othman’s passing is a profound loss, not only for the literary and academic communities but for Nigeria as a whole. His commitment to knowledge and creativity, his passion for education, and his contributions to both literature and governance will be remembered as a testament to a life well lived. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to shine brightly in the world of Nigerian literature and academia.
