Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, a former governor of Oyo State, died just days before his 90th birthday.
The news was confirmed in a family statement released on Sunday and signed by Oladapo Ogunwusi. The announcement, titled ‘Victor Olunloyo Goes Home’, described the late statesman as a brilliant mathematician, engineer, and dedicated technocrat.
Dr. Victor Olunloyo, who once served as the first Rector of both The Polytechnic, Ibadan, and Kwara State Polytechnic, was widely respected for his long-standing service to Nigeria. He also held traditional titles including the Balogun of Oyo and Otun Bobasewa of Ife.
According to the family, preparations are underway to give him a befitting burial, and they requested the public and media’s understanding during this difficult time.
His death comes a year after he publicly debunked rumours about his passing. In April 2024, some news outlets falsely reported his death, prompting a personal appearance at his Ibadan home where he stated, “I’m still here, not yet gone.”
He also reflected on life, saying, “My father died at 42, and my mother died at 102. I’m 89. I’ve crossed the expected life age.”
Though he battled health issues in his final years, his family maintained last year that he was alive but needed prayers.
Dr. Olunloyo’s legacy as a scholar, administrator, and elder statesman lives on.