Albert Adeoye Ilemobade (12 April 1936 – 21 June 2015) was a distinguished Nigerian veterinary parasitologist with a notable academic and professional career both locally and internationally. He served as the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) from 1987 to 1995 and made significant contributions to veterinary science and public health, particularly in the study and control of tsetse fly and trypanosomiasis.
Early Life and Education
Albert Ilemobade was born in Ondo State, Nigeria, on 12 April 1936. His educational journey spanned prestigious institutions, including:
- University of Ibadan, Nigeria
- Oklahoma State University, USA
- Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
- University of Minnesota, St. Paul, USA
Career
Professor Ilemobade made substantial contributions to veterinary parasitology. His work focused particularly on tsetse fly control and trypanosomiasis, both major concerns in African livestock health.
He served in various academic and administrative roles, most notably as the Vice Chancellor of FUTA (1987–1995). He retired from public service in 1995.
International Consultancy
- World Health Organization (WHO) – Consultant on tsetse fly and trypanosomiasis
- Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) – Technical consultant on animal health
Abduction and Death
On 21 June 2015, Professor Ilemobade was abducted and murdered in Ijapo Estate, Akure by two domestic workers:
- Daniel Ita – security guard
- Yemi Bamitale – former driver, recently dismissed
Circumstances of Murder
The murder was orchestrated following Bamitale's failed attempt to sell the professor’s Toyota SUV. On the evening of 21 June, Daniel lured Ilemobade outside the house under the pretense of checking an electrical fault, where he was strangled to death. His body was hidden within the premises and discovered in a decomposed state on 29 June 2015 due to a foul odor.
After the murder, the perpetrators looted his phones, laptop, iPad, N7,000 in cash, and Toyota SUV. They traveled to Ogun State, where they were briefly detained by the Federal Road Safety Corps for possessing invalid documents. However, they were later arrested by the Ogun State Police Command during an attempt to sell the vehicle at a suspiciously low price.
Family
Albert Ilemobade was married to Christiana Olakitan (née Akinrodoye).
See Also
- Veterinary medicine in Nigeria
- Trypanosomiasis control in Africa