Lasun Alagbe

On Sunday, March 6, 2025, a giant iroko tree departed the political forest in Oyo State.

This is symbolised by the death of a former governor of the Pace Setter state, Dr. Victor Olunloyo, who was celebrated as an action governor and a legendary intellectual.

His death brings to memory the deaths of former governors who were in office from the Second Republic.

These were Chief Bola Ige, who was assassinated in 2001; Chief Kolapo Ishola, Alhaji Lam Adesina, Otunba Alao Akala and Senator Abiola Ajimobi.

Meanwhile, according to a statement by his family on Sunday, Olunloyo died a few days before his 90th birthday.

The statement titled ‘Victor Olunloyo goes home’ was signed by Oladapo Ogunwusi on behalf of the family.

It read, “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 Balogun of Oyo and Otun Bobasewa of Ife, Dr. Olunloyo was first Rector, Ibadan polytechnic and first Rector, Kwara State Polytechnic among other notable appointments.

“His long record of service to the nation and humanity is a source of pride to his family and associates even as we come to grip with this devastating event.

“The Olunloyo family will appreciate the understanding of the press and the public as they commence efforts to give him a befitting burial.

“Even from everlasting to everlasting, He is God.”

About a year ago in April 2024, the rumour of the death of the elder statesman was reported by some news platforms.

But speaking with The PUNCH correspondent who visited his Molete residence in Ibadan, the state capital, he debunked the rumour, saying he was hale and hearty.

“I’m still here, not yet gone,” he declared then.

He also expressed worry over the rumour and asked who would live forever, stressing, “Those breaking death news and the person presumed dead will all die one day.

“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.”

The elder statesman also illustrated how the rumour of his death hit several news platforms on June 7, 2022.

A few days later, the family issued a statement, declaring that he was not dead but suffering from old age ailment and asked Nigerians to pray for him to survive the health complications.