Death of Michael Koleoso: A Patriotic Leader and Statesman
A former Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Michael Koleoso, has passed away at the age of 86. The late politician was known for his dedication to public service and his contributions to the development of Oyo State.
According to a statement issued by the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, Koleoso’s death marks the end of a glorious era. The governor described the late politician as a great patriot and selfless leader who gave his all to make Nigeria a better place.
Born on April 30, 1938, Koleoso began his education at Baptist Primary School, Ajegunle, Saki, and later attended Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo, from 1957 to 1961. He went on to study at the School of Hygiene, Eleyele, Ibadan, where he obtained his Ordinary National Diploma in 1965 and Advanced Certificate in 1966.
Koleoso’s political career spanned several decades. He was elected as a Councilor in the Ifedapo Local Government Area of the Old Oyo State in 1976 and later became a member of the Oyo State House of Assembly in 1979, representing Ifedapo Constituency on the platform of the Chief Obafemi Awolowo-led Unity Party of Nigeria.
In his later years, Koleoso founded Esmak Nigeria Limited, a company that focused on commodity distribution, transportation, real estate, and hospitality. His entrepreneurial ability soon became legendary, along with his lifestyle of order, balance, discipline, and self-restraint.
The late politician was also the National Chairman of the defunct Alliance for Democracy and served as Secretary to the Oyo State Government during the administration of late Governor Lamidi Adesina from 1999 to 2023.
Governor Makinde expressed his condolences to the Koleoso family, his political family across the state and Nigeria, and the people of Saki and Oyo State. He prayed for the repose of Koleoso’s soul and commended his dedication to public service.
The passing of Michael Koleoso marks the end of an era, and his legacy will be remembered for generations to come.
