Dr. Omololu Olunloyo’s passing is indeed a significant loss to Nigeria. As a distinguished Nigerian and former governor of the old Oyo State, he left an indelible mark on the country’s history.
Interestingly, his demise coincided with the coronation of Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, Ewu Etu 1, the newly crowned Alaafin of Oyo and the successor of Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi 3.

Dr Olunloyo played a crucial role in the selection process as the Commissioner for Chieftaincy Affairs under Colonel Adeyinka Adebayo, and was instrumental in ensuring that the rightful candidate for the throne of Alaafin was picked in the late 60s and 70s.

Dr. Olunloyo’s encounter with the late Oba Adesoji Aderemi, the Ooni of Ife, is particularly noteworthy. Baba Adesoji Aderemi, after consulting the oracle, revealed to Dr. Olunloyo that Prince Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi was the chosen one, saying “Omololu Omo eniti otijẹri ri ni ẹjẹki ojẹẹ, yio sipẹnibẹ.”

Dr. Olunloyo’s remarkable life was marked by excellence, from being a brilliant mathematician to serving as the first Rector of Ibadan Polytechnic and Kwara State Polytechnic. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations.

Igbayilola, a Lagos-based lawyer, can be reached via [email protected]