Makinde pledges to preserve, digitise Olunloyo’s legacy library

By Adejayan Gbenga –

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has expressed readiness to digitise the personal library of the late former Governor of old Oyo State, Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, with the aim of transforming it into a tourist attraction and knowledge hub for the state.

Governor Makinde made the declaration on Wednesday during the lying-in-state and executive session held in honour of Dr. Olunloyo at the Secretariat in Ibadan.

Describing the late elder statesman as his “conspiratorial partner in progress” and one of the intellectual pillars of his administration, the Governor said Olunloyo’s library holds valuable resources capable of offering solutions to various societal challenges.

He also assured the Olunloyo family that the monumental park named after the late governor is ready for inauguration and will be opened in line with the family’s decision.

Governor Makinde further observed a minute of silence in honour of the victims of the tragic accident that occurred on Tuesday at the Soka area of Ibadan.

In their separate tributes, the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barrister Bayo Lawal, and the Acting Rector of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Dr. Taiwo Lasisi, eulogised the late Olunloyo, describing him as an embodiment of brilliance with a profound commitment to public service.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Mrs. Oluyemi Olunloyo-Buckner described Dr. Olunloyo as not only an exceptionally brilliant figure but also a devoted father who gave the family a strong sense of identity, heritage, and love.

Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, a former governor of old Oyo State and renowned mathematician, passed away on April 6, 2025, just days before his 90th birthday.