Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, has commiserated with the Olunloyo family, the people of Ibadanland and the state over the passing of mathematician and former governor of the state, Dr Victor Omololu Olunloyo who died on Sunday.
Governor Makinde in a statement by his Special Assistant (Print Media), Moses Alao said the state has lost another icon in Olunloyo.
Makinde added that, “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.”
The Governor expressed joy is that the late Pa Olunloyo witnessed as his government immortalised and honoured him during his lifetime by naming 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,” Makinde said.
Similarly, Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, expressed heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and associates of the Dr Olunloyo and the late Alhaji Yekini Adeojo, the Seriki of Ibadanland who died on Friday.
The minister described the late former governor as a distinguished statesman, a brilliant technocrat, and a visionary leader whose contributions to governance, education, and public service remain indelible in the annals of Oyo State and Nigeria.
“His legacy of intellectual depth, principled leadership, and unwavering commitment to societal progress will continue to inspire generations to come.
“As you mourn this irreplaceable loss, may you find solace in his remarkable life and enduring impact. May Almighty God grant you the strength to bear this moment and comfort you with the knowledge that he lived a life of great purpose and service”, he said.
On the late Adeojo, the minister described him as an illustrious son of Ibadanland who was dedicated to the development of the city and Oyo State.
He noted that the deceased’s contributions to societal growth and his unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people will remain an enduring legacy.
“The passing of Alhaji Yekeen Adeojo is a profound loss not only to his family but also to the entire Ibadanland and all who benefited from his kindness and leadership.
“His life was a testament to selfless service, and his memory will continue to inspire those who knew him,” the Minister said.
The minister also sympathised with the people of Ibadanland and all Nigerians mourning the loss of these illustrious sons of the late politician.
For his part, senator representing Oyo South Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Sharafadeen Alli described Dr Olunloyo’s death as the end of a golden era of wisdom, scholarship, and statesmanship in Nigeria.
The Senator said the late former governor was a towering intellectual and one of the brightest minds to ever serve in public office in Nigeria.
“The death of Dr. Olunloyo is a monumental loss to Oyo State and Nigeria at large. He was a symbol of brilliance, simplicity, and unwavering commitment to public service.
“His contributions to governance, academia, and the development of our dear state remain unmatched,” he said.
Senator Alli extended heartfelt condolences to the Olunloyo family, the good people of Ibadanland and the entire Oyo State.
He prayed that God would comfort the family and grant the departed soul eternal rest.
“We have lost a gem, a leader with rare intellect and an elder whose counsel was always profound.
“May Almighty God rest his soul in peace and grant us all the strength to bear this great loss,” the statement added.
