Former Oyo State Governor, Victor Omololu Olunloyo, Dies at 89

Victor Omololu Olunloyo, the first Ibadan indigene to serve as the governor of Oyo State, has passed away. He died in the early hours of Sunday, just three months shy of his 90th birthday.

Olunloyo served as the governor of the old Oyo State from October to December 1983. Sources close to the family revealed that he had been battling age-related health issues in recent weeks.

Olunloyo, a respected technocrat, mathematician, and engineer, served as governor of Oyo State between October 1 and December 31, 1983, during the brief civilian interregnum before the military regime of General Muhammadu Buhari took over power.

READ ALSO: Doyin Okupe dies at 72

Born on April 14, 1935, the elder statesman held traditional titles as the Balogun of Oyo and the Otun Bobasewa of Ife.

His death was confirmed in a statement issued on behalf of the family by a former Editor of the Nigerian Tribune, Barrister Oladapo Ogunwusi.

“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 statement read.

The family described the late Olunloyo as a distinguished public servant whose contributions to education and governance remain enduring legacies.

He was the pioneer Rector of both The Polytechnic, Ibadan, and the 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 grips with this devastating loss,” the family added.