Former Governor of Oyo State, Dr (Chief) Omololu Olunloyo, died in the early hours of today (Sunday, April 6, 2025, at the age of 89 years, eight days to his 90th birthday.
Olunloyo, who was born on April 14, 1935, was the governor of Oyo State from 1 October 1983 to 31 December 1983.
At the time of filing this report, Olunloyo’s death has been confirmed in a statement signed by Barrister Oladapo Ogunwusi.
The statement reads, “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, a few days before his 90th birthday.
“The Balogun of Oyo and Otun Bobasewa of Ife, Dr. Olunloyo, was the first Rector, Ibadan Polytechnic and first Rector, Kwara State Polytechnic, among other notable appointments.
“His long record of service to the nation and humanity is a source of pride to his family and associates, even as we come to grip with this devastating.
“The Olunloyo family will appreciate the understanding of the press and the public as they commence efforts to give him a befitting burial.”
Reacting, the Oyo State Governor, Engr. ‘Seyi Makinde, described Olunloyo’s death as the exit of one Oyo State’s and Nigeria’s most cerebral former administrators.
In a statement, Makinde commiserated with the entire Olunloyo family, the people of Ibadanland and Oyo State.
According to him, it was sad that the late Mathematical guru and administrator passed away before his 90th birthday adding, “On behalf of the Government and the good People of Oyo State, I express my heartfelt condolences to the family of Dr Omololu Olunloyo, the people of Ibadanland and Oyo State on the demise of the former governor.”
The statement reads, “In Dr Olunloyo, we have lost another icon. This time, we lost a highly cerebral and patriotic leader, who served our great state at its early stages.
“This death hits differently because I was looking forward to Baba’s 90th birthday, which would have come up on April 14th.
“However, we have to submit to the will of God, who gives and takes lives as He wills.
“My joy is that our government immortalised and honoured Pa Olunloyo in his life time and he was present to witness it, as we named the Ibadan Airport Road and the Leisure Park on the axis after him in recognition of his service to the state.
“May the Lord grant repose to his soul and give his family the fortitude to bear his demise.”
