Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has announced that the late former governor of the state, Dr. Omololu Olunloyo, will be given a full state burial in honour of his legacy and outstanding contributions to Oyo State and Nigeria at large.
Governor Makinde made the announcement during a condolence visit to the family of the late elder statesman on Tuesday. The visit took place at the family residence in Molete, Ibadan, where he was warmly received by Mrs. Aderonke Olunloyo, widow of the deceased.
Dr. Olunloyo, a renowned mathematician and respected political figure, passed away on Saturday, April 6, at the age of 89. His death has drawn tributes from across Nigeria, with many highlighting his intellectual brilliance, leadership qualities, and service to the country.
Speaking during the visit, Governor Makinde described the late Dr. Olunloyo as a “towering figure” in the political and academic life of Oyo State and Nigeria. He noted that his government, in collaboration with the Olunloyo family, had begun preparations for a state funeral that would reflect the life and legacy of the late scholar and politician.
“We have lost a legend. Dr. Olunloyo was not just a former governor; he was a brilliant mind, a respected leader, and a symbol of integrity and excellence. His contributions to the growth of this state and Nigeria will never be forgotten,” the governor said.
Makinde emphasised that the planned state burial would honour the achievements of the late governor, not only in politics but also in the academic and public service spheres.
“He was one of Nigeria’s brightest intellectuals. His academic feats in Mathematics placed him among the finest minds globally. He brought that same intelligence into leadership, and we will ensure he is remembered with the honour he truly deserves,” the governor added.
Dr. Omololu Olunloyo was born in 1935 and made history as one of the first Nigerians to earn a PhD in Mathematics. He later transitioned into politics and public service, where he continued to make an impact. In 1983, he briefly served as the governor of the old Oyo State under the platform of the defunct National Party of Nigeria (NPN), before the military coup that ended the Second Republic cut his administration short after just three months in office.
Despite his short time as governor, Olunloyo remained a strong voice in the state’s political affairs. He was widely respected for his intellect, bluntness, and his passion for good governance. Over the years, he mentored many younger politicians and technocrats and continued to participate in public discourse until his passing.
The governor said arrangements were ongoing to ensure the state funeral would reflect Dr. Olunloyo’s values and accomplishments. He noted that details of the burial programme would be announced once finalized in collaboration with the family.
“We are in discussions with the family to ensure that we honour him in the best way possible. We will provide all necessary support to the family and work together to give him a befitting farewell,” Makinde assured.
Mrs. Aderonke Olunloyo, who received the governor on behalf of the family, expressed gratitude for the visit and the state’s decision to honour her late husband. She thanked Governor Makinde for the show of love and commitment to preserving Dr. Olunloyo’s legacy.
“We appreciate Your Excellency’s kind gesture and the honour you’re giving to our father and husband. He truly loved this state, and it gives us peace to see that he is being remembered in this way,” she said.
Meanwhile, residents of Oyo State and members of the public have continued to pour in tributes for the late former governor. Many described him as a man of rare brilliance, deep insight, and unwavering commitment to the progress of the state.
Adebayo Olagunju, a retired civil servant in Ibadan, said Olunloyo’s legacy of service and integrity would remain unmatched.
“Dr. Olunloyo was a gift to this state. Even though his time in government was short, his impact was deep. He was a man ahead of his time,” he said.
Another resident, Adeola Akinyemi, a lecturer at the University of Ibadan, praised Olunloyo’s academic accomplishments and influence on education policy.
“He inspired so many of us in academia. He showed that it was possible to combine academic excellence with public service. His death is a huge loss,” she said.
In his lifetime, Dr. Olunloyo also held various roles in both the public and private sectors. He was a commissioner in the old Western Region and served in different national capacities. His passion for education, development, and fairness earned him the respect of people across political and ethnic divides.
As the state prepares to honour one of its brightest minds, the memory of Dr. Omololu Olunloyo will no doubt remain etched in the hearts of many Nigerians, especially the people of Oyo State who he served diligently and loved deeply.
