- Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, former Oyo State governor and renowned mathematician, has died at age 89
- His family confirmed his death in a statement titled “Victor Olunloyo Goes Home”
- Governor Seyi Makinde mourned his passing, describing him as one of Nigeria’s most cerebral administrators
Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, a former governor of Oyo State, respected mathematician, engineer, and technocrat, has passed away just days before his 90th birthday.
The news of his death was confirmed in a statement released by his family on Sunday, April 6, titled "Victor Olunloyo Goes Home.”
The statement, signed by Oladapo Ogunwusi on behalf of the family, expressed gratitude to God even in mourning the elder statesman.
“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 family wrote.
Dr. Olunloyo, who held the traditional titles of the Balogun of Oyo and Otun Bobasewa of Ife, had a storied career.
He was the first Rector of both The Polytechnic, Ibadan and Kwara State Polytechnic, among other notable positions.
His lifelong commitment to national development and education made him a revered figure in both political and academic circles.
About a year ago, in April 2024, rumours of his death had circulated widely, prompting concern.
However, Dr. Olunloyo personally debunked the reports when a PUNCH correspondent visited him at his residence in Molete, Ibadan.
“I’m still here, not yet gone,” he had said with humour, expressing surprise and concern over the false reports.
Reflecting on his longevity, he had stated, “My father died at 42, while my mother died at 102. I’m 89. I’ve crossed the expected life age.”
He also recalled how similar rumours emerged in 2022, falsely claiming he had died at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan.
His family later clarified he was only battling age-related ailments and appealed to Nigerians for prayers during that time.
In response to his passing, Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, paid glowing tribute to Dr. Olunloyo, calling his death the loss of one of Oyo State and Nigeria’s most cerebral administrators.
Makinde expressed solace in the fact that his administration had the opportunity to honour Dr. Olunloyo while he was alive.
“My joy is that our government immortalised and honoured Pa Olunloyo in his lifetime, and he was present to witness it, as we named the Ibadan Airport Road and the Leisure Park on that axis after him in recognition of his service to the state,” Makinde said.
He extended his condolences to the Olunloyo family, the people of Ibadanland, and all citizens of Oyo State, noting that the news was especially painful given that Dr. Olunloyo would have turned 90 on April 14, 2025.
“In 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,” Makinde added.
As the Olunloyo family begins preparations for a befitting farewell, they ask for privacy and understanding during this difficult time.
Ex-Oyo governor Abiola Ajimobi’s daughter, Abisola Kola-Daisi, dies at 42
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that Bisola Kola-Daisi, the eldest daughter of the late former governor of Oyo State, Abiola Ajimobi, passed away at the age of 42.
The news of her passing attracted diverse reactions, with some expressing sympathy and condolence to the deceased family, while others used the opportunity to express their frustration with the country's political situation.