Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, a former governor of Oyo State and a renowned technocrat, has passed away just days before his 90th birthday.
The news was confirmed in a statement issued on Sunday by Oladapo Ogunwusi on behalf of the Olunloyo family. Titled “Victor Olunloyo Goes Home,” the statement expressed deep sorrow while celebrating a life marked by outstanding service to Nigeria.
“With gratitude to God and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo — former governor of Oyo State, accomplished mathematician, engineer, and distinguished public servant,” the family said.
Dr. Olunloyo held traditional titles such as the Balogun of Oyo and Otun Bobasewa of Ife. He was also the pioneering rector of both The Polytechnic, Ibadan and Kwara State Polytechnic, among several notable leadership roles throughout his career.
His contributions to education, governance, and national development have been widely recognized and will remain a source of pride to his family and admirers.
The family requested privacy as they begin preparations for his burial and asked for public understanding during this period of mourning.
Dr. Olunloyo had previously been the subject of false death reports. In April 2024, some media outlets erroneously reported his passing. At the time, he dismissed the rumors in a conversation with The PUNCH, assuring the public of his well-being from his residence in Molete, Ibadan.
“I’m still here, not yet gone,” he had said. Reflecting on his age and the nature of such rumors, he added, “We will all die one day. My father passed at 42, my mother lived to 102 — I’ve made it to 89, so I’ve already surpassed expectations.”
He also recalled how similar false reports circulated in June 2022, wrongly claiming that he had died at the University College Hospital in Ibadan. His family later clarified that he was alive but facing age-related health challenges and asked Nigerians for prayers at the time.
Dr. Olunloyo’s legacy as a scholar, administrator, and elder statesman will long be remembered.
