By Stephen Gbadamosi, Ibadan
The recent demise of two prominent sons of Ibadanland,Oyo State, has been described as losses of two rare gems.
This was the position of the Olubadan of Ibadan, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin (Ige Olakulehin 1).
He was commiserating with all sons and daughters of Ibadanland on the eternal exit of former governor of Oyo State, Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, and prominent businessman and politician, Chief Yekini Adeojo.
According to a statement by the Public Relations Officer (PRO) to the Olubadan, Chief Solomon Ayoade, on Monday, April 7, the paramount ruler noted that “these deaths in quick succession have diminished the number in the Ibadan pool of elder statesmen.”
Describing the late former governor as a rare brain, Oba Olakulehin said: “Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, a foremost mathematician, was a first-class brain who stood tall in the Nigerian and international intellectual space.
“His election as governor of Oyo State was a turning point that blazed the trail for the emergence of Ibadan indigenes as governors of the state.
“We will recall that this was a most defining moment when the Ibadan voted for one of their own and true to his name, Victor, he became victorious in the gubernatorial electoral battle of 1983.
“Though short-lived, his tenure was a significant watershed for Oyo State politics.”
Chief Olunloyo, who also held the titles of Balogun of Oyo and Otun Bobasewa of Ife, passed on in the early hours of last Sunday, April 6.
In the same vein, Oba Olakulehin condoled with the people of Ibadanland, Oyo State, Nigeria and members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on the demise of Alhaji Adeojo.
Adeojo, a founding father of the PDP in Oyo State and former Deputy National Chairman (South) of the party, who held the prestigious title of Seriki Musulumi of Yorubaland, passed on in the early hours of Friday.
“Alhaji Adeojo was a prominent businessman, industrialist and philanthropist. He contributed immensely to the economic development of Ibadanland and Oyo State, employing thousands, championing many charitable and philanthropic endeavours.
“As a politician, he was a bridge builder and well respected as a political figure across Nigeria.
“A devout Muslim, the Islamic community will miss his commitment and devotion to the promotion of the Islamic religion,” the monarch said.
Oba Olakulehin prayed for the repose of their souls and the fortitude to bear these irreparable losses by their immediate and extended families as well as Ibadan and Oyo State indigenes.
