“I Was Looking Forward To Baba’s 90th Birthday On April 14” – Oyo Gov Makinde Mourns Fmr. Gov. Olunloyo

By Ayodele Oni

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has expressed  sadness over the death of former Governor, Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo. He described it as the loss of a highly intelligent and capable leader for Nigeria.

In a statement released on Sunday, Governor Makinde conveyed his deep sympathy to the Olunloyo family, the people of Ibadan, and the entire Oyo State.

He noted the particular poignancy of the renowned Mathematician and Elder Statesman passing away just before his 90th birthday.

He said: “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.

“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.”

A statement by his family on Sunday, stated that the former governor died a few days before his 90th birthday.

The statement titled ‘Victor Olunloyo goes home’ was signed Oladapo Ogunwusi on behalf of the family.

“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 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 event.

“The Olunloyo family will appreciate the understanding of the press and the public as they commence efforts to give him a befitting burial. Even from everlasting to everlasting, He is God.”