A prominent former Secretary to the Oyo State Government Michael Koleoso, has passed away at the age of 86. Koleoso, who served as the SSG during the administration of the late Governor Lamidi Adesina from 1999 to 2023, died in the early hours of Monday, September 2, 2024.
In addition to his role as SSG, Koleoso was the National Chairman of the defunct Alliance for Democracy. His death marks the end of a distinguished era in Oyo State’s political history.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde expressed deep sorrow over Koleoso’s passing, describing it as “The end of a glorious era.” In a statement released from Ibadan, the state capital, Governor Makinde reflected on Koleoso’s significant contributions:
“I received the news of the death of Baba Michael Koleoso, the Babalaje of Saki, with shock and sadness. Oyo State and Nigeria have lost a great patriot and selfless leader, one of the last men standing among those who dedicated their lives to improving Nigeria. People who know me understand that I had a special bond with Babalaje; I regarded him as a father and had the utmost respect for him. He was a courageous and upright leader who always spoke truth to power. His guidance and experience have been invaluable to our state, and he loved Oyo State until his final days.”
Governor Makinde extended his condolences to Koleoso’s family, his political supporters, and the people of Saki and Oyo State, emphasizing that “It is the end of a glorious era.”
Born into the Emi-Abata family of Saki on April 30, 1938, Koleoso received his primary education at Baptist Primary School in Ajegunle, Saki. He continued his education at Olivet Baptist High School in Oyo from 1957 to 1961.
Koleoso pursued further studies at the School of Hygiene, Eleyele, Ibadan, earning an Ordinary National Diploma in 1965 and an Advanced Certificate (equivalent to today’s HND) in 1966.
Koleoso began his career in the civil service as the Head of the Health Department of the old Saki District Council. He later transitioned into business, founding Esmak Nigeria Limited, a company known for its involvement in commodity distribution, transportation, real estate, and hospitality.
His entrepreneurial success was matched by his commitment to order, balance, discipline, and self-restraint. In 1976, Koleoso was elected unopposed as a Councilor in Ifedapo Local Government Area of the Old Oyo State.
By 1979, he had been elected to the Oyo State House of Assembly as the representative of Ifedapo Constituency on the platform of the Unity Party of Nigeria, led by Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Koleoso’s legacy as a dedicated public servant and influential leader will be remembered fondly by those who knew and worked with him.
