Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, a former governor of Oyo State and respected public figure, has passed away just days before his 90th birthday. The news was confirmed in a statement released by the family on Sunday, April 6, 2025.
The announcement, shared by Oladapo Ogunwusi on behalf of the family, noted that Dr. Olunloyo died after a lifetime of service to both his state and the country.
“With a heavy heart but gratitude to the Almighty, we announce the passing into glory of Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, former governor of Oyo State, mathematician and engineer and renowned technocrat, a few days before his 90th birthday,” the statement read.
Dr. Olunloyo was not only known for his time in politics but also for his contributions to education and public service.
He held several key positions during his lifetime, including serving as the first Rector of the Polytechnic Ibadan and also the first Rector of Kwara State Polytechnic. His titles, such as the Balogun of Oyo and Otun Bobasewa of Ife, reflected his deep cultural roots and community recognition.
The family described him as a man whose dedication to Nigeria and humanity brings pride, even as they mourn his passing. They also asked for privacy and understanding from the media and the public as they begin preparations for his burial.
Dr. Olunloyo’s death comes nearly a year after he publicly dismissed false rumors about his passing. In April 2024, social media and some online platforms wrongly reported that he had died. At the time, a journalist from The PUNCH visited his Ibadan residence, where Olunloyo personally addressed the situation.
“I’m still here, not yet gone,” he stated, visibly amused by the false claims. He went on to question why people were so quick to spread such stories, noting, “Those breaking death news and the person presumed dead will all die one day.”
He also shared details about how similar rumors had previously circulated on June 7, 2022. In that instance, some reports falsely claimed he had died at the University College Hospital in Ibadan. The family quickly responded to set the record straight, explaining that the elder statesman was alive but dealing with age-related health issues. They asked the public to keep him in their prayers at the time.
Dr. Olunloyo once reflected on his longevity, saying, “I’ve been lucky. My father died at 42, while my mother died at 102. I’m 89. I’ve crossed the expected life age.”
