Former Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Michael Koleoso, has passed away at the age of 86. Koleoso, who served as SSG under the late Governor Lamidi Adesina from 1999 to 2003, died in the early hours of Monday, September 2, 2024.
Koleoso was also the National Chairman of the now-defunct Alliance for Democracy, a key political figure in his time.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State expressed his condolences, describing Koleoso’s death as “the end of a glorious era.” In a statement released in Ibadan on Tuesday, Makinde spoke of the deep impact Koleoso had on Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole. “I received the news of Baba Michael Koleoso’s death with shock and sadness. Oyo State and Nigeria have lost a great patriot and selfless leader,” the governor stated.
Makinde, who shared a close relationship with Koleoso, referred to him as a father figure and praised his courage and integrity. “Babalaje was a courageous and upright leader who spoke truth to power. We’ve relied on his guidance and wealth of experience in guiding our great state to greatness,” he added.
Makinde extended his condolences to the Koleoso family, his political associates, and the people of Saki and Oyo State, noting the loss as a significant end to an era.
Born on April 30, 1938, in Saki, Koleoso’s early education began at Baptist Primary School, Ajegunle, Saki, followed by Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo. He later attended the School of Hygiene, Eleyele, Ibadan, where he obtained his Ordinary National Diploma and an Advanced Certificate in the mid-1960s.
Koleoso started his career in the civil service as Head of the Health Department of the old Saki District Council before venturing into business. He founded Esmak Nigeria Limited, which became well-known for its work in commodity distribution, transportation, real estate, and hospitality.
In politics, Koleoso was first elected unopposed as a Councilor in the Ifedapo Local Government Area of Old Oyo State in 1976. In 1979, he was elected to the Oyo State House of Assembly representing the Ifedapo Constituency under the Unity Party of Nigeria, led by Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Koleoso’s legacy is marked by his entrepreneurial spirit, disciplined lifestyle, and commitment to public service.
