President Tinubu mourns former Oyo Governor Victor Olunloyo

By Kunle Sanni

President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, former governor of the old Oyo State, offering heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Oyo State, as well as the Olunloyo family.

In a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described Dr. Olunloyo as a brilliant scholar, dedicated public servant, and an enduring figure in Nigeria’s intellectual and political history.

Renowned for his exceptional academic achievements, Dr. Olunloyo earned a PhD in Applied Mathematics and Number Theory from St. Andrews University in Scotland at the age of 25. He was appointed commissioner in the old Western Region at just 27 and later served multiple times as commissioner in the Western State.

President Tinubu praised Dr. Olunloyo’s pioneering role in the education sector, highlighting his impactful leadership as the founding rector of The Polytechnic Ibadan and Kwara State Polytechnic, where he helped establish strong academic and administrative foundations.

“Dr. Olunloyo will be celebrated in academic circles for his brilliance and foundational contributions to applied mathematics and number theory,” the President said. “As an educator, he profoundly influenced future leaders and fortified educational institutions.”

Recalling his brief but impactful tenure as governor of the old Oyo State, President Tinubu acknowledged Dr. Olunloyo’s vision and leadership, despite the premature end of his administration due to military intervention.

He further commended the late statesman for his unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s unity, progress, and intellectual growth, describing his legacy as a lasting milestone in the nation’s development.