The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has described the passing of former Oyo State Governor, Dr. Omololu Olunloyo, as a great loss, noting that he was a trailblazer whose legacy will never be forgotten.
The revered elder statesman, known for his intellectual brilliance and passionate advocacy for Ibadan development, passed away at the age of 89. His death has cast a shadow of mourning over the ancient city and beyond.CCII President-General, Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole, in a statement made available to newsmen by the council’s Publicity Secretary, Mr Kola Olomide, on Sunday, lamented the timing of Olunloyo’s passing, which closely followed the death of another prominent Ibadan son, Alhaji Yekini Adeojo.
Ajewole said the loss of two towering figures in quick succession had left Ibadan in deep grief.“What a loss! Baba’s elderly wife was at Bodija Central Mosque yesterday where we were celebrating the 90th Birthday of Alhaja Giwa and the Imam of the Mosque and Professor K. K. Olosho asked after the health of this frontline Ibadan leader,” he said.According to Ajewole, the passing of both Olunloyo and Adeojo within a space of three days was a painful blow to the city’s collective spirit.He, however, encouraged residents to take pride in the legacies left behind by the two distinguished leaders.“Coming just within three days of the demise of another quintessential Ibadan leader, Alhaji Yekini Adeojo, made our grief more painful. But God knows the best,” he said.Olunloyo, who briefly governed Oyo State in 1983, was not only a political leader but also a respected mathematician, academic, and policy advocate. His influence went beyond politics into education and community development, where he remained a voice of wisdom and vision.CCII praised his enduring contributions, stating that his works and ideas would continue to guide generations.“Ibadan remains undeterred. Both of them have left footprints on the sands of time, unforgettable legacies that we are proud of. May God grant both eternal rest and grant the families and our beloved city the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss,” Ajewole stressed.The council called on indigenes to see this moment as a call to action, to honour their memories through unity, progress, and cultural pride.“We must always be conscious of our heritage and braze up to continue our giant steps to make Ibadan greater. Adieu! our trailblazers,” the CCII President-General concluded.