By Adeyinka Adeniran
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state had said plan is underway to digitalize his private library of a former governor of the state, Late Omololu Olunloyo.
Speaking at an Executive session, held at the House of Chief, House of Assembly Complex, Agodi Secretary, Ibadan, in honour of the former governor, Makinde said the decision was taken in recognition of the elder statesman contribution to the education sector.
Aside from dignitaries and family members who were at the event, the remains of the late former Governor, was brought in a casket and covered with the Nigerian flag to honor him.
He described late Olunloyo’s private library as a treasure trove of knowledge capable of offering solutions to numerous societal challenges, adding that the deceased invested his resources in books.
He explained that the efforts to transform the library into a heritage and knowledge centre would not only honour the legacy of Dr. Olunloyo but also enrich the cultural and intellectual appeal of Oyo State to visitors.
He highlighted the potential of the Olunloyo library to serve as a significant tourist attraction, aligning with his administration’s focus on tourism as a key pillar of economic development.
Makinde said, “Chief Olunloyo is a genius whose contribution to the education sector at the state and national levels remains indelible.
“His private library is a treasure trove of knowledge capable of offering solutions to numerous societal challenges. He invested his resources in books. This made him stand out among his peers in academics.
“For the unborn generation to draw from his fountain of knowledge, there is need to preserve his library which to me is a befitting heritage that he is leaving behind.”
He also emphasized the state’s commitment to providing the necessary resources to safeguard the library for future generations.
The Governor who described the late elder statesman as his conspiratorial partner of progress and one of the think brains of his administration, noting that the library is capable of offering solutions to numerous societal challenges.
He assured the family of Olunloyo that monumental park named after the former governor, is ready for inauguration and would be opened in alignment with the family’s decision.
Governor Makinde while speaking, observed a minute silence to honour victims of the accident that occurred at Soka area of ibadan on Tuesday.
Earlier in their separate orations the deputy Governor of Oyo State, Bayo Lawal and Acting Rector, The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Dr. Taiwo Lasisi, eulogised the late Olunloyo, describing him as embodiment of brilliant with profound commitment to public service.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Mrs Oluyemi Olunloyo-Buckner, said Dr. Olunloyo was not only an exceptionally brilliant personality but also a father who gave the family identity, heritage and love.
Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, a former Governor of old Oyo State and renowned mathematician, died on 6th April, 2025, few days to his 90th birthday.
