By Milcah Tanimu
In the midst of a sprouting landscape, a more than 70-year-old mansion stands. An unplanned visit led us to the compound, devoid of any grandeur. No hostile figures, no intrusive thugs; just a serene entrance unlocked by Bunmi, my companion. With ease, we entered the premises.
Guided by Bunmi, who knew the way well, we ventured through the duplex and into the living room. Aunty Ronke, the lady of the house, spotted us from a distance, her warm greeting welcoming us inside. With our numbers adding to a trio, we joined a grey-haired gentleman in a wheelchair. Dressed in Ankara, he seemed dozing. The room exuded a simple charm; furnishings and dining set, modest yet attractive. Electronics were conspicuously absent, reflecting the landlord’s minimalist taste.
Bunmi introduced me as a journalist, sparking lively exchanges. The ambiance embraced everyday conversations. The elderly man, seemingly immersed in his private world of slumber, gradually stirred. With a lifted head and half-opened eyes, he extended a welcome and inquired about our stance on the “removal of subsidy.”
We were guests in the Molete Ibadan residence of His Excellency Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, former Governor of Old Oyo State. Molete, with its political history, is in proximity to the domain of Late Lamidi Adedibu, an eminent Yoruba figure in Ibadan politics.
Dr. Olunloyo, an octogenarian, alternated between sleep and wakefulness. Although his contributions to discussions were brief, his insights testified to his wisdom. Despite his wife’s absence, Aunty Ronke offered us rice or solids for lunch. Opting for Semovita, we saw the kitchen set in motion. Baba, as he’s affectionately called, desired Amala from a specific vendor, Alhaja Alakowe in Oja Oba, Oke Ado area.
His driver, Uncle Samson, was dispatched humorously to fetch the favored Amala, stating, “So fun won pe gomina loma jeo” (Tell them the food is for a Governor). Periodically, Baba summoned his medical attendant “Nuuurse” and his daughter Wura.
As the table was set, we enjoyed our respective choices in an informal setting. This simplicity brought to mind an encounter with a prominent politician in Abuja years ago, where every meal was a grand feast. In contrast, Baba’s consideration for details and his ability to recall events and figures with precision reflected his character.
Dr. Olunloyo’s journey to public notice was swift. After earning a PhD in Mathematics and Engineering from St Andrews University Scotland at just 26 years old, he returned to Nigeria. His appointment as Commissioner for Economic Development by Dr. Moses Majekodunmi marked his entry into the public sphere. With further appointments and contributions to various ministries, his career flourished.
His peak came in 1983 when he was elected Governor of Old Oyo State. Unfortunately, his term was short-lived due to the military junta’s intervention. Throughout his service, integrity and courage defined him. He recounted a post-coup conversation with General Tunde Idiagbon that revealed his audacity to speak against corruption.
Conversations flowed effortlessly, spanning science, arts, music, politics, and commerce. Baba’s passion for Nigeria stood out. He recognized the nation’s complex problems, attributing corruption and poverty to a greedy political class and their followers.
As our time concluded, he was content with the moniker “Dr. NO,” refusing to steal or allow underlings to do so. Despite his reputation, he attributed his ethical stance to his privileged upbringing. His parting words echoed a call to serve rather than steal, a message of integrity that resonated deeply.
Our lunchtime visit had ended, but the wisdom and integrity of Dr. Olunloyo lingered on.