Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, on Thursday announced the renaming of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, after the late former governor of the state, Dr Victor Omololu Olunloyo.
The announcement was made during the interdenominational funeral service held in honour of Olunloyo at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Liberty Road, Ibadan.
Makinde declared that the institution would henceforth be known as Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic, Ibadan, in recognition of Olunloyo’s contributions to education and governance in the state. Dr Olunloyo, who passed away on April 6, 2025, was the pioneer Principal of the Polytechnic and served as governor of Oyo State between October and December 1983.
Speaking at the service, Governor Makinde described the late Olunloyo as a multifaceted figure whose life could not be captured in a single sentence. “Baba left an enduring footprint on the sands of Oyo State and, indeed, Nigeria as a whole,” he said.
He further noted: “He was a scholar, a statesman, a technocrat, a lover of culture, and above all, a man of deep conviction. Though his time as governor was brief, his election victory over a popular incumbent remains a powerful testament to the trust people placed in him.”
Makinde added that the state would also preserve and digitise Olunloyo’s personal library to serve as a public resource and a mark of honour.
In his sermon, retired Methodist Archbishop of Ilesa and Ibadan, Most Rev. Ayo Ladigbolu, described Olunloyo as a role model, an intellectual powerhouse, and a man of integrity who demonstrated exceptional leadership during his lifetime.
The well-attended funeral service drew dignitaries from across the state and beyond. Among them were the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal; Chief (Mrs) Dupe Jemibewon, wife of a former Military Governor of old Oyo State; Chief (Mrs) Mutiat Ladoja, wife of a former governor; former Deputy Governors Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja and Barr. Hazeem Gbolarumi.
Also present were Hon. Abass Adigun Agboworin (representing Ibadan North-East/South-East Federal Constituency); Chief of Staff to the Governor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi; members of the State Executive Council; Chairman of the Oyo State Elders’ Council, Dr Saka Balogun; Chairman of ALGON in Oyo State, Hon. Sikiru Sanda; President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Barr. Adeniyi Ajewole; religious leaders, and family members.
The event was a solemn yet celebratory reflection of the late statesman’s life, with tributes pouring in for his contributions to education, public service, and intellectual advancement in Nigeria.
