Korede Abdullah in Lagos
Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, former governor of Oyo State, has passed away just days before his 90th birthday.
In a heartfelt statement titled “Victor Olunloyo Goes Home”, the family confirmed the news on Sunday, expressing gratitude to God despite their sorrow: “With a heavy heart but gratitude to the Almighty, we announce the passing into glory of Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, former governor of Oyo State, mathematician and engineer and renowned technocrat.”
The statement, signed by Oladapo Ogunwusi on behalf of the family, highlighted his esteemed titles such as the Balogun of Oyo and Otun Bobasewa of Ife, and his groundbreaking roles as the first rector of both Ibadan and Kwara State Polytechnics.
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, described the loss as one of the greatest the state has seen in recent times, calling Olunloyo “a highly cerebral and patriotic leader, who served our great state at its early stages.”
He noted the bittersweet moment of losing the elder statesman shortly after the state had immortalized him by naming the Ibadan Airport Road and a leisure park in his honor.
“May the Lord grant repose to his soul and give his family the fortitude to bear his demise,” Makinde said, emphasizing the deep void left behind by the late technocrat’s passing.
Just a year prior, in April 2024, Olunloyo had refuted death rumours, insisting, “I’m still here, not yet gone.”
He criticized the spread of false news and reflected on life, saying, “Those breaking death news and the person presumed dead will all die one day.”
The nonagenarian, known for his wit and intellect, shared that he had outlived his father who died at 42 and was approaching the age his mother passed at 102.
Despite previous health concerns, his resilience had given hope until his final passing. His family has asked for privacy as they prepare a befitting farewell for a man who left an indelible mark on Oyo State and Nigeria.
