Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, former governor Rashidi Ladoja, and Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli, representing Oyo South, have paid glowing tributes to Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, a former governor of the state, who passed away in the early hours of Sunday.
According to LMSINT MEDIA, Olunloyo served as governor for a brief term between October and December 1983. His death marks the end of an era for Oyo State and Nigeria at large.
Makinde Describes Loss as Painful and Patriotic
In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Print Media, Moses Alao, Governor Makinde expressed profound grief, referring to Dr. Olunloyo as one of the most cerebral and patriotic leaders to have emerged from Oyo.
“On behalf of the people and Government of Oyo State, I extend our deepest sympathies to the Olunloyo family, Ibadanland, and the entire state,” Makinde stated.
“This loss is especially painful as we anticipated celebrating his 90th birthday on April 14. Nevertheless, I’m comforted that our administration honored him during his lifetime by naming the Ibadan Airport Road and Leisure Park after him.”
Makinde acknowledged the contributions of the late governor to state development, emphasizing his patriotism and intellectual brilliance.
Ladoja Calls Olunloyo Incorruptible and Exceptional
Former Governor Rashidi Ladoja, in a statement released through his media aide Adeola Oloko, described Dr. Olunloyo as a man of integrity and an outstanding academic.
Ladoja recalled Olunloyo’s academic excellence from Government College Ibadan to his PhD studies in Scotland, noting that he was among the youngest Nigerians to attain that level of education at the time.
“He was not just a mathematician and engineer, but also a committed public servant who served as a commissioner under the Majekodunmi and Adebayo administrations,” Ladoja said.
“Olunloyo’s dedication to public service and his incorruptibility remain his greatest legacies.”
Ladoja also highlighted his tenure as rector of both The Polytechnic, Ibadan, and Kwara State Polytechnic, as well as his leadership in various scientific research institutions.
Senator Alli: Nigeria Has Lost a Rare Intellectual Giant
Senator Sharafadeen Alli expressed deep sadness at the loss of what he termed “a golden era” in Nigerian leadership. In a message conveyed by his media adviser Akeem Abas, he hailed Dr. Olunloyo as a beacon of wisdom and integrity.
“Dr. Olunloyo’s death is a significant blow to Oyo State and Nigeria,” he said.
“He embodied intellectual strength, simplicity, and statesmanship. His impact on governance and academic development is unparalleled.”
Alli added that Dr. Olunloyo was a rare gem whose wise counsel and deep intellect will be greatly missed.
A Legacy Etched in Nigerian History
Dr. Victor Olunloyo’s legacy, spanning public administration, education, and governance, serves as a reminder of what true service to the nation entails. From BBC News, we understand the importance of preserving the legacies of leaders who shaped the nation’s early development.
As Nigeria reflects on his life, his legacy will live on through the institutions he served and the lives he influenced.
Read also: How Ibadan Remembers Heroes of Governance
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