The All Progressives Congress (APC) Elders Council members in Oyo State have joined others to mourn the demise of Professor Isiaka Olayinka Kolawole, a prominent party chieftain and former Deputy Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC).
Prof. Kolawole, who was the Director-General, APC Presidential, and Governorship Campaign Council in Oyo in 2023, died on Sunday, September 6th, 2026, at a hospital in Abuja after a brief illness.
Chief Iyiola Oladokun Pays Tribute to Oyo APC Titan
Reacting to the news, former Deputy Governor and Chairman of the Elders Council, Chief Iyiola Oladokun, expressed deep shock over the loss. The relationship between both leaders dates back to the administration of Alhaji Lam Adesina, when Prof. Kolawole served as the Oyo State Liaison Officer in Abuja. Since 2021, Prof. Kolawole has served as the administrative scribe and secretary of the elders group.
“Prof. Isiaka Kolawole was one of the most straightforward, principled, and disciplined politicians I have ever known. He was very active and a diligent secretary of our council,” Chief Oladokun stated in his official release.
He added: “He lived a life of impact and service, and his departure is very painful, but we are consoled by the knowledge that he left an indelible mark when we talk about education, public administration, and politics. He will be greatly missed because of his disposition as a member of the council and a great human being. May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds, and grant him eternal rest.”
The Academic and Political Legacy of Professor Isiaka Kolawole
The late professor held key administrative roles in education and governance throughout his career. His loss creates a major vacuum within the Oyo APC leadership hierarchy, especially given his central role in coordinating party affairs and advising senior stakeholders across the South-West region.
Party members, academic colleagues, and political associates continue to send condolences to his family, praising his dedication to public administration and his steadfast commitment to governance reform in Nigeria.
