Senator Sharafadeen Alli (APC-Oyo South) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Governor of Oyo State, Dr Omololu Olunloyo, describing his death as the end of a golden era of wisdom, scholarship, and statesmanship in Nigeria.

This is contained in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Akeem Abas and made available to newsmen on Sunday in Ibadan.

Senator Alli said Olunloyo was a towering intellectual and one of the brightest minds to ever serve in public office in Nigeria.

He noted that the late elder statesman was not only a former governor but also a respected mathematician, engineer, and renowned technocrat whose legacy would continue to inspire generations.

“The death of Dr. Olunloyo is a monumental loss to Oyo State and Nigeria at large. He was a symbol of brilliance, simplicity, and unwavering commitment to public service.

“His contributions to governance, academia, and the development of our dear state remain unmatched,” he said.

Senator Alli extended heartfelt condolences to the Olunloyo family, the good people of Ibadanland and the entire Oyo State.

He prayed that God would comfort the family and grant the departed soul eternal rest.

“We have lost a gem, a leader with rare intellect and an elder whose counsel was always profound.

“May Almighty God rest his soul in peace and grant us all the strength to bear this great loss,” the statement added.

Victor Omololu Olunloyo Ph.D, former governor of Oyo State for three months, is dead.

His death was confirmed in a statement signed by a former Editor of the Nigerian Tribune, Barrister Oladapo Ogunwusi.

Born 14th April 1935, Olunloyo, then of the National Party of Nigeria, NPN, was governor of Oyo State between October 1 and December 31, 1983 having defeated incumbent Bola Ige of the Unity Party of Nigeria, UPN.

The statement reads, “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 the 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.”

The Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, has congratulated His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, on his official coronation as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo.

Dr. Adedeji, an Ogbmosho born, was personally present at the grand ceremony held at Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo, on Saturday. He described the event as a proud moment for the Yoruba race and a significant milestone in preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Oyo Kingdom.

Speaking after the coronation, the FIRS boss hailed the emergence of the new Alaafin, noting that Oba Owoade’s ascension comes at a time when traditional institutions must play a greater role in uniting and guiding the people towards peace and development.

He said “I felicitate with His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Owoade I, on this historic and well-deserved coronation as the Alaafin of Oyo. This is indeed a new chapter not only for the Oyo Kingdom but for Yoruba land as a whole,

“Oba Owoade’s humility, wisdom, and commitment to tradition stand him out. I am confident that his reign will usher in peace, progress, and renewed cultural consciousness among the people of Oyo and beyond.”

Dr. Adedeji also commended the Oyo State Government, the Oyomesi, and all stakeholders for the peaceful and successful installation process, saying it reflects the unity and maturity of the Oyo people.

He further prayed for a prosperous reign for the monarch, while assuring the Alaafin of his continued support in efforts that promote development in Oyo and the nation at large.

Oba Owoade received his staff of office from Governor Seyi Makinde in January, having completed the traditional rites before Saturday’s crowning ceremony.

The new Alaafin succeeds the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who reigned for 52 years before his transition in April 2022.

Dignitaries across the country, including traditional rulers, politicians, and cultural enthusiasts were present at the event.

Governor ’Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has inaugurated Dr. Sola Adeduntan, former Managing Director of First Bank, as the Chairman of the Governing Council of the Abiola Ajimobi Technical University, Ibadan.

The inauguration held at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s Office, where the Governing Councils of both Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, and Abiola Ajimobi Technical University, Ibadan, were formally constituted.

Dr. Adeduntan, a distinguished leader with extensive experience in financial management and strategic leadership from his tenure at First Bank, is expected to contribute significantly to the strategic growth and academic excellence of the institution.

Governor Makinde, while inaugurating the councils, reiterated his administration’s commitment to repositioning the education sector, noting that the state now boasts full ownership of three thriving universities.

The institution, established in 2017 by Senator Abiola Ajimobi, was renamed by Governor Makinde to honour his predecessor’s legacy in educational development.

The governor expressed confidence in the capacity of the council members to work in synergy with stakeholders to advance the university’s vision and reposition it as one of the leading institutions in Nigeria and Africa.

Other members of the newly inaugurated Governing Council include Professor Adesola Ajayi, Vice Chancellor; Professor Iyiola Tella, Deputy Vice Chancellor; Hon. Seyi Joseph Adisa; Professor (Engr.) Samson Olakunle Ojoawo; Professor Mojeed Kolawole Akinsola; Dr. Aminat Adeyemi Ahmed; Mrs. B.T. Oyinloye, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education; Mrs. A.A. Fasina, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance; and Mrs. Olanrewaju V. Omolola, Acting Registrar/Secretary.

Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde has declared openly that emergence of Oba Akeem Owoade 1 as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo was made successful by Ifa Oracle led by the then Vice Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Professor Wande Abimbola.

He made this assertion known that the initial selection process by Oyomessi was marred with corruption and as someone whose conscience would not justify undue process, he ordered cancellation of the process and called for the restart of the whole process.

Makinde retreated and said that upon his investigation, he discovered that some people within the Oyomessi rank hand collected bribe from one of the contestants as against fair practice that the reverred stool of Alaafin is known for.

He said he had to intervene to save the reverred stool from being dragged into the mud as it became expedient that Oyomessi had made wrong choice to announce unqualified candidate against the norm and tradition.

He therefore used the ocassion to advise the warring parties to sheathe their sword and embrace peace for the progress and development of the ancient town.

Owoade ascended the throne on Saturday as the 46th monarch at a coronation ceremony held at Oliveth Baptist High School in Oyo town.

Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo state, had announced Owoade as the new Alaafin in January and handed him the staff of office despite opposition from the kingmakers (Oyomesi).

Details later.

A chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP and president of the Beulah Adeoye Foundation, Amofin Beulah Adeoye has joined eminent Nigerians and party faithful to mourn the demise of Alhaji Yekinni Adeojo.

Amofin Adeoye, in a statement made available to newsmen described the late Chief Adeojo as beacon of integrity and a forthright leader throughout his political journey and beyond.

“It is with deep sorrow and a profound sense of loss that we mourn the passing of our party’s elder statesman a towering figure in our nation’s political history

“Chief Adeojo’s death came as a shock, he left at the time we needed him more for fatherly advice. Late Chief Adeojo left behind a legacy of service, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the ideals of justice, unity, and progress PDP stands for.

“Throughout Chief Adeojo’s political career as a gubernatorial candidate of our party in 1999 general elections and beyond, Chief Adeojo exemplified the highest ideals of leadership.

“He was a beacon of integrity and courage during some of the most defining moments in our nation’s journey. His contributions to the shaping of our democratic institutions and his tireless efforts in championing the rights of the people will never be forgotten in national politics and Oyo State PDP.

“I recalled with gratitude my last visit to Chief Adeojo’s residence in Ibadan, in spite of his schedule, embraced me, took time to mentor and encourage me. Chief Adeojo also requested I check back the following Sunday for more robust conversations like father to son. He will be sorely missed.

“Beyond politics, he was a successful businessman, mentor, a patriot, and a voice of reason in turbulent times. His wisdom was sought by leaders across generations, and his counsel was always marked by clarity and compassion. His belief in dialogue, inclusion, and nation-building set a standard for all who aspire to public service.

“As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life well-lived in the service of others in Oyo State and beyond.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, Oyo State PDP and all who mourn this tremendous loss. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire future generations to serve with honor, dignity, and selflessness”.

Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has mourned the death of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain and Seriki Musulumi of Yorubaland, Alhaji Yekini Ayoade Adeojo.
The governor, who described Alhaji Adeojo as one of the last men standing, said his death marked the end of a glorious political era.

Governor Makinde expressed his condolences to the family of Adeojo, who was the PDP Governorship standard bearer in the 1999 Governorship Election, praying to God to grant them the fortitude to bear the exit of their patriarch.
The governor also commiserated with the PDP family in Oyo State.
He said: “I have just been informed about the passing of our father, Pa Yekini Adeojo.

“I condole with the family of Alhaji Adeojo, the PDP in Oyo State and the good people of the state over the demise of a man most of us grew up to know as an icon and patriot.

“Baba’s death marks the end of a glorious political era, as he was one of the last great men standing in the state as a political, community and religious leader.
“He will be greatly missed by the PDP family, where he has been our leader and icon for over two decades.

“His death will also leave a vacuum in our great state and Nigeria, because Baba gave his best to serving our state and nation.
“It is my prayer that God will grant repose to his soul, grant him Aljanah Firdaus and uphold the family he left behind.”