Femi Osofisan at 80: Celebrating a Disarming Humanist Icon

Femi Osofisan, a towering figure in Nigerian literature and theatre, turns 80, yet his public persona belies his immense stature. Known for his "square face and that perpetually undecided beard," Osofisan's simplicity and gentle speech often disarm those who meet him, making his "giant reputation" seem almost incongruous.

The author, Tunde Fagbenle, shares a personal account of his deepening friendship with Osofisan, which blossomed during the COVID-19 pandemic. What began as a distant literary acquaintance transformed into a close bond over shared evenings of table tennis, barbecues, and drinks at Fagbenle's Ibadan home. This convivial atmosphere, fostered by Osofisan and his fellow academics, created a sense of community that even made the pandemic feel like a "strange mercy."

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F.O.? Nibo lo n fo lo?

Fagbenle expresses deep admiration for Osofisan's "overflowing cup of calm wisdom, vast knowledge, and magnanimous heart." He humorously recounts a moment when he and a mutual friend, Bisi Ogunbadejo, questioned Osofisan's Ijebu heritage due to his exceptional generosity, a jest that Osofisan met with a playful retort. As Osofisan reaches this milestone birthday, Fagbenle reflects on the enriching nature of their friendship and playfully laments Osofisan's theoretical approach to exercise, despite his repeated declarations of readiness.

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Ignorant Araokes!