A former governor of Oyo State, Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, has passed away just days to his 90th birthday.
His family announced the news in a statement on Sunday, expressing both grief and gratitude for his long life and legacy.
Dr. Olunloyo, who had a distinguished career as a mathematician, engineer, and technocrat, held numerous significant positions, including being the first Rector of both Ibadan Polytechnic and Kwara State Polytechnic. He also held the titles of Balogun of Oyo and Otun Bobasewa of Ife. The family statement, signed by Oladapo Ogunwusi, confirmed his passing and described his record of service as a source of immense pride for his loved ones.
The family noted, “With heavy hearts, but gratitude to the Almighty, we announce the passing of Dr. Olunloyo, a man whose contributions to the nation and humanity will never be forgotten.”
The family is now making arrangements for a fitting farewell for the late statesman and has requested privacy during this time of mourning.
In April of 2024, a rumour about his death surfaced, which was promptly denied by the elder statesman when a reporter visited his residence in Ibadan. At the time, Dr. Olunloyo, who was 89, dismissed the speculation, expressing his concern over the spread of false information. “I’m still here, not yet gone,” he had remarked, adding that no one could escape death in the end.
Dr. Olunloyo had previously addressed a similar death rumor in June 2022, when some news outlets claimed he had passed away at the University College Hospital, Ibadan. His family quickly clarified that he was still alive, though suffering from health issues due to old age.
