South-West Govs Mourns Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, Describes Him as a Towering Scholar and Administrator

The South-West Govs’ Forum and Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, the former Governor of Oyo State during Nigeria’s Second Republic. Dr. Olunloyo, a celebrated mathematician, administrator, and public servant, died just days before what would have been his 90th birthday.

In a heartfelt statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, on Sunday, Governor Sanwo-Olu paid glowing tribute to the late elder statesman. He described Dr. Olunloyo’s death as a significant loss not only to the people of Oyo State and Ibadan, his hometown, but to the entire South-West region and Nigeria at large.

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A Life of Intellectual and Public Service Excellence

Sanwo-Olu recalled Dr. Olunloyo’s outstanding contributions to both public service and academia, describing him as a genius of exceptional intellect, a seasoned technocrat, and a true son of the South-West who dedicated his life to the pursuit of knowledge and good governance.

“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Lagos State, and the South-West Governors’ Forum, I commiserate with my brother, Governor Seyi Makinde, the government and people of Oyo State on the death of Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo,” the statement read.

He extended his condolences to the deceased’s immediate family, the Olunloyo dynasty, the sons and daughters of Ibadan, and the many associates and admirers of the late scholar and politician.

From Academia to Government: A Storied Journey

Dr. Olunloyo’s life was marked by remarkable academic and political achievements. A trained mathematician and scholar, he was one of Nigeria’s most accomplished intellectuals. His legacy in education includes serving as the first Rector of the Ibadan Polytechnic, where he set the foundation for the institution’s growth and relevance in the technical education sector.

He made history early in life when, at the age of 27, he was appointed Commissioner for Economic Development in the Western Region in 1962. He later held several other key portfolios, including:

• Commissioner for Community Development
• Commissioner for Education (twice)
• Commissioner for Special Duties
• Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs

Despite only serving a brief term as Governor of Oyo State from October 1 to December 31, 1983, Dr. Olunloyo left an indelible mark on the state’s political landscape. His contributions to policy and statecraft during that period are still remembered as impactful and visionary.

A Political Leader Beyond Public Office

Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized that Dr. Olunloyo was more than just a public official; he was a towering figure in the political and intellectual life of the South-West. Known for his incisive thinking and strategic mind, he remained a respected political elder long after his tenure as governor.

“He served Oyo State passionately as governor during his three months in office, contributing his quota to the growth and development of the state,” Sanwo-Olu noted. “He was also a political leader in Oyo State before his death, mentoring younger generations and contributing to public discourse.”

Dr. Olunloyo’s breadth of knowledge and his ability to move seamlessly between the academic, public service, and political arenas made him a unique figure in Nigeria’s development history. His passing, according to the Lagos State Governor, is a reminder of the diminishing generation of Nigeria’s pioneer intellectuals and patriots who laid the foundation for national progress.

Prayers and Tribute to a South-West Icon

In his closing remarks, Governor Sanwo-Olu prayed for the peaceful repose of Dr. Olunloyo’s soul and asked God to comfort his family and loved ones during this period of grief.

“I pray that Almighty God be pleased with the soul of Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo and grant the family, the people of Ibadan, Oyo State, and the South-West of Nigeria the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss,” he said.

Dr. Olunloyo’s legacy as a man of ideas, policy, and profound intellect will undoubtedly live on. His impact on education, governance, and leadership continues to resonate across generations, particularly in the South-West region where his influence remains deeply respected.

As tributes continue to pour in from across the country, one thing is certain: Nigeria has lost a brilliant mind, a committed leader, and a patriot who gave his all for the betterment of society.