The Chairman of the South-West Governors Forum and Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, the former Second Republic Governor of Oyo State.
EpeInsights reports that Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a heartfelt statement, described the death of the renowned mathematician and scholar, who passed away just days before his 90th birthday, as a significant loss not only to Oyo State and the people of Ibadan but also to the South-West region and Nigeria as a whole.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, extended his condolences to the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, as well as the family, friends, and associates of the late Olunloyo, urging them to find comfort in knowing that the late statesman lived a fulfilling and impactful life.
He described the late Olunloyo, who served as Governor of Oyo State from October 1 to December 31, 1983, as a distinguished administrator, intellectual, and technocrat. “Dr. Olunloyo was a genius and a man of many parts, known for his intellectual prowess and immense contributions to both the public and private sectors,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
He continued, “On behalf of my family, the government, and the people of Lagos State, as well as the South-West Governors Forum, I commiserate with my brother, Governor Seyi Makinde, and the people of Oyo State on the passing of Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo.”
Sanwo-Olu further acknowledged the late Olunloyo’s remarkable career, highlighting his leadership in various roles. Olunloyo was the first Rector of Ibadan Polytechnic and served as Commissioner for Economic Development for the Western Region at just 27 years old. He also held multiple key positions, including Commissioner for Education, Community Development, Local Government, and Chieftaincy Affairs, before becoming Governor of Oyo State.
The Lagos State Governor praised Olunloyo’s dedication to the growth and development of Oyo State during his short tenure as Governor. “He served with great passion, and his impact on the state was felt by many,” Sanwo-Olu said.
In his concluding remarks, Sanwo-Olu prayed for the peaceful repose of Dr. Olunloyo’s soul and offered strength to his family, the people of Ibadan, Oyo State, and the entire South-West region during this time of profound loss. “May the Almighty grant them the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss,” he added.
