Dr Onaolapo Soleye, a former finance minister of Nigeria, has passed away at the age of 90.
He marked his 90th birthday last Saturday in Abeokuta, Ogun State, and died in the early hours of Wednesday at a specialist hospital in Ibara GRA, Abeokuta.
Soleye served in various capacities throughout his career, including as an Associate Professor at the University of Ibadan, Commissioner for Works in Ogun State, and Minister of Finance of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He was also a commissioner in the Old Western Region and held various portfolios, including Lands, Trade, Industry, and Commerce, after the creation of Ogun State.
A statement from the Soleye family announcing the death reads: “With heavy hearts but with gratitude to God Almighty for a long, impactful and positively eventful life, the family announces the passing of Pa Dr Onaolapo Soleye, the father of our late brother, Maj Gen OO Soleye (rtd). He turned ninety years only last Saturday.
“Papa served the country and humanity in various capacities rising to the position of an Associate Professor in the University of Ibadan, Commissioner for Works in Ogun State and Minister of Finance of the Federal Republic of Nigeria amongst others.
“He was a true lover of God and humanity and this translated into his unwavering commitment to church activities as well as ready support and assistance to all who came across him, in any way that he could.
“The loss of Dr Soleye is surely not that of the Soleye family alone. It’s our father that has just passed and we must all prepare to be part of his rites of passage.
“Burial details will be announced by the family in due course. Until then, please pray for the repose of Papa’s soul and God’s comfort upon his family and other loved ones.
“May the soul of Dr Onaolapo Soleye rest in peace. Amen”
Dr Soleye is survived by his wife, Mrs. Modupe Womiloju Soleye, and four children – Olamide Soleye, Abimbola Fadimu, Oluwafunmilakin Soleye and Eyitayo Soleye – grandchildren and great grandchild.
His first son, Major General Lola Soleye, died earlier this year.
