Our hearts ache at the passing of VC Adamu Baikie — a leader whose name was more than a title; it was a refuge. I will never forget the day my friends and I marched at Nasarawa State University, Keffi, protesting the dilapidated water and power supply on our Campuses, especially the Pyanku Campus. We were angry, tired and determined. What none of us never expected was to meet kindness in the form of our Vice Chancellor. Baba was a giant, yet gentle, a brain that is not brutal, an intellect that is humble and a man that is noble.
Baba could barely walk, yet he came out. He took my hand and walked with us from the Admin office to the gate — nearly half a kilometer; his faithful Peugeot 406 quietly following the procession. The crowd called out “Baba! Baba! Baba!” and I was struck mute, held captive not by fear but by the sheer humility and dignity of the man before us.
In that moment I understood the power of true leadership: it disarms anger and replaces it with respect, takes away anxiety for hope, and replaces tears with cheers.
With his Blue Jumpa and sweet Zanna cap, he listened, he empathized. He called our struggle an unfortunate one but praised our peaceful organization. He gently urged that next time we present our grievances in writing and through a smaller delegation noting that we may not be very lucky not to lead people with absolute notoriety, who may destroy the little facilities we hope to upgrade.
As hilarious as he could, with a laugh and the self-effacing words that only Baba could wear so warmly, he lamented “I was scared”, the entire crowd bursted with an uncontrollable laughter; he sent us away with smiles, not defeat. The issues might not have been solved that day, but everyone left uplifted because they had been seen, heard and treated with humanity.
Baba dignified life is exemplary, something we must all learn from now and always. Baba Baikie was the kind of leader our times surely need: detribalized, intellectual, modest and profoundly humane. His era reshaped our University with foresight, prudence and academic vigor. His loyalty to simplicity was even reflected in his official car — the same blue Peugeot 406 — a small, constant emblem of a man who prized substance over show.
He will be remembered not only for policies and initiatives, but for the countless small acts of kindness, generosity and plain-speaking candor that touched so many lives. He leaves behind a community bettered by his presence and inspired by his example.
My heartfelt condolences to his immediate family. May Almighty God grant them the strength and comfort in this time of sorrow. Baba’s life was full; he touched so many souls and left a legacy none of us will forget.
Adieu, Baba Adamu Baikie — the VC of a kind.
– Salihu Adam Jiddah -PhD
Federal University of Kashere
