Ayo Marvel 
Ijebu Igbo, Ogun State — The Ijebu Igbo community has been thrown into deep mourning following the passing of Professor Layi Ogunkoya, the pioneer President of the Ijebu Igbo Council of Elders. He passed away at the aged of 91.
The revered statesman and community icon died on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, marking the end of an era for one of the most influential custodians of Ijebu Igbo heritage.
According to an official announcement by the Council of Elders, the church burial service for the late professor will hold on Thursday, December 4, 2025.
Before his passing, preparations were already underway for a grand celebration scheduled for Friday, December 5, to honour his unwavering dedication and patriotic contributions to the development of Ijebu Igbo.
Sadly, Prof. Ogunkoya did not live to witness the event meant to celebrate his legacy, sacrifice, and commitment to the growth of his homeland.
Fondly called Prof. Layi by associates and admirers, he was a proud descendant of the Orimolusi Kingdom, known for his integrity, leadership, and community-first philosophy.
His foundation touched countless lives, uplifting many beneficiaries through education, empowerment, and community development programs.
His passing has created a major vacuum in the Ijebu Igbo intellectual and leadership landscape. Members of the community, beneficiaries of his goodwill, and admirers across Nigeria are paying tribute to the emeritus professor, describing him as “a shining light, a compassionate leader, and a cultural pillar whose legacy will endure for generations.”
In an official statement, Stephen Adebayo, Media Secretary of the Ijebu Igbo Council of Elders, expressed the Council’s grief, noting that the community has lost “a hero whose patriotism and contributions remain unmatched.”
The Council prayed that Almighty God grants the late professor eternal rest and gives the entire Ijebu Igbo community the strength to bear the irreplaceable loss.
Recall, Prof. Layi Ogunkoya was a renowned Nigerian elder statesman, academic, and community leader from Ijebu Igbo, Ogun State.
A distinguished academic, he became a Professor in 1979 and spent over 35 years at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. He also served as Interim Vice-Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University, where he restored normalcy to the institution.
Prof. Ogunkoya was a recipient of numerous accolades, including a congratulatory message from President Muhammadu Buhari on his 85th birthday in 2019. He was also recognized for setting up a foundation to promote quality education and community development.
Prof. Ogunkoya leave behind a legacy of contributions to education, community development, and national growth.
Adieu, Pa Layi Ogunkoya — The Emeritus Professor.
About the Author
Emmanuel Femi Adedayo 
Ademola Busayo 