Victor Omololu Olunloyo Dies at 90: Nigeria Mourns a Mathematician, Statesman, and Former Oyo Governor

Victor Omololu Olunloyo, the former Governor of Oyo State and celebrated Nigerian technocrat, has died at the age of 90. The revered elder statesman passed away on Sunday after a brief illness, just days before his milestone 90th birthday celebration, which was already in motion.

Victor Olunloyo’s family, in a heartfelt statement issued by his wife, Mrs. Ronke Olunloyo, confirmed that he breathed his last in a private hospital in Ibadan. The family requested privacy as they navigate this difficult moment, describing his life as one marked by relentless service, intellectual excellence, and traditional leadership.

Trailblazer in Nigerian Education and Academia

Victor Omololu Olunloyo’s academic journey remains one of the most exemplary in Nigeria’s educational history. Trained as a mathematician and engineer, he broke barriers and achieved feats that remain unmatched in the country’s academic space. He earned his doctorate in mathematical sciences from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland at an exceptionally young age.

Victor Omololu Olunloyo was the pioneer rector of both The Polytechnic, Ibadan, and Kwara State Polytechnic—two of Nigeria’s most respected tertiary institutions. Under his stewardship, these institutions grew in both scope and quality, becoming models of polytechnic education in West Africa. His passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) inspired generations of Nigerian students.

A Political Life Steeped in Service and Principle

Victor Olunloyo’s brief but impactful tenure as Governor of Oyo State in 1983 under the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) remains a significant chapter in the state’s political narrative. Although his time in office was truncated by the military coup of December 1983, Olunloyo left a legacy of fiscal discipline, urban planning initiatives, and educational reforms.

His political ideology was shaped by intellectual rigor rather than populism. A principled and articulate leader, Victor Olunloyo was often revered for his commitment to development and his refusal to engage in divisive politics. His balanced approach to governance earned him admiration across party lines and among the broader Oyo electorate.

Traditional Titles and Cultural Legacy in Yoruba Land

Victor Omololu Olunloyo was not only an academic and politician but also a revered custodian of Yoruba culture. He held prominent traditional titles such as the Balogun of Oyo and Otun Bobasewa of Ife, symbolizing his deep connection to his heritage. These chieftaincy titles acknowledged his leadership, wisdom, and contributions to the unity and progress of Yoruba land.

He was a bridge between tradition and modernity, often serving as a voice of reason in matters of cultural identity and national integration. Victor Olunloyo’s participation in Yoruba sociopolitical affairs further reinforced his stature as a multifaceted leader who balanced his intellectual pursuits with cultural responsibilities.

Nationwide Tributes Pour in for the Technocrat

Victor Omololu Olunloyo’s death has sparked a wave of tributes from political leaders, academics, traditional rulers, and ordinary Nigerians. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, and several other dignitaries have extended condolences to the Olunloyo family, hailing the late statesman as a “rare gem whose legacy will endure.”

From former students to political allies and rivals, tributes have poured in on social media and mainstream platforms, celebrating his intellect, humility, and patriotism. Many recalled his regular interventions on national discourse, especially on education reform and governance, where he remained an influential voice even in retirement.

Family and Burial Arrangements: A Quiet Farewell Planned

The Olunloyo family has announced that preparations for Victor Omololu Olunloyo’s burial are underway. Although a detailed funeral plan has not yet been released, the family has hinted at a modest and dignified farewell that reflects the late elder’s values of humility and service.

According to family sources, the planned birthday celebrations will now transition into a commemorative event honoring his life and achievements. As Nigeria prepares to bid farewell to one of its most distinguished sons, tributes continue to highlight the extraordinary legacy of Victor Omololu Olunloyo—a legacy etched in scholarship, governance, and culture.