A former Oyo State Commissioner for Finance, Waheed Akinlabi Folaranmi Akanbi, has paid glowing tribute to the late Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, describing him as a towering intellect and a visionary leader whose legacy will endure through generations.
In a heartfelt statement, Mr. Akanbi extolled Dr. Olunloyo’s academic and professional journey, highlighting his pioneering contributions to applied mathematics and number theory. He described the late scholar as a strong advocate of education as a vehicle for national development.
“Dr. Olunloyo will be celebrated in academic circles for his brilliance and foundational contributions,” he said. “As an educator, he profoundly influenced future leaders and fortified educational institutions.”
Reflecting on Dr. Olunloyo’s brief tenure as Governor of the old Oyo State, Mr. Akanbi noted that his time in office, though short, was marked by remarkable leadership and foresight.
“The demise of this illustrious son of Ibadan hit me hard, despite his advanced age,” Akanbi stated. “We were planning to celebrate his 90th birthday. Alas, it dawned on me that we have lost a gem – an intellectual of the highest order.”
Describing the late statesman as a brilliant yet humble man, he added: “Beneath his simple mien was a powerful and articulate mind that spanned all facets of life. He was a reservoir of knowledge—both in modern and indigenous science. One of my political mentors is gone.”
Akanbi shared personal anecdotes, including an emotional recollection from the turbulent period of Governor Rashidi Ladoja’s impeachment.
“I remember during the Ladoja impeachment crisis, he called me around 3 a.m. and told me to stay away from the Secretariat. He even advised that if I must go, I should wear a female iro, buba and gele. That advice saved me from the chaos that unfolded that morning.”
Despite the sorrow, Akanbi said he chooses to celebrate Dr. Olunloyo’s life rather than mourn.
“I will raise a cold bottle of Star or Heineken beer in his honour—for a life well spent. He was a jovial man. I’m sure if one were to go through his library, they would find that he predicted his final moments on this earth.”
“Sleep well, Baba,” he concluded. “May your soul rest in peace.”
