Professor Okello Oculi, a distinguished Ugandan scholar, poet, and long-serving member of the Daily Trust Editorial Board, has died at the age of 83.

Oculi passed away yesterday in Abuja, bringing to a close an illustrious career marked by unwavering dedication to African unity, literature, and intellectual development.

His death was confirmed by scholar and close associate, Yusuf Bangura, who described him as "a committed fighter for African unity" and "a scholar who lived and breathed Africa."

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Born in Uganda, Prof. Oculi spent more than 48 years in Nigeria, where he became deeply woven into the academic, journalistic, and political fabric of the country.

As a member of the Editorial Board of Daily Trust for nearly a decade, he was instrumental in shaping the paper's pan-African editorial direction, providing depth and historical insight into issues affecting the continent.

Oculi also served as a Review Editor for political science journals at the University of Abuja, guiding scholarly discourse and mentoring younger academics.

His pioneering work with Organisation of African Unity (OAU) Mock Summits--launched at Ahmadu Bello University and later extended to secondary schools and the African Union headquarters -- earned him wide respect as an educator and innovator.

In his final months, he was working on a book about Diallo Telli, the OAU's first Secretary-General, and had proposed the creation of a Diallo Telli Prize to honour African diplomats who demonstrate creativity, courage, and brilliance in the service of the continent.

Beyond academia, Prof. Oculi's literary voice resonated widely.

His works, including Prostitute, Orphan, Kanta Riti, Malak, and Nigerian Alternatives, blended satire, folklore, and socio-political critique, reflecting the struggles and aspirations of post-independence Africa.

His sudden passing came as a shock to colleagues and friends, many of whom had exchanged messages with him just days prior.

Bangura added that even in his final days, Prof. Oculi remained "upbeat, insightful, and provocative."

The veteran scholar is survived by his wife and two sons.