By Sola Ojewusi
LAGOS, May 12, 2025 – Navy Captain Omoniyi Caleb Olubolade (rtd), former Military Administrator of Bayelsa State and ex-Federal Minister, has died. He was 70.
Captain Olubolade, who hailed from Ipoti-Ekiti in Ekiti State, reportedly passed away on Sunday, May 11, in Apapa, Lagos. The retired naval officer had driven himself to a nearby facility to play lawn tennis when he collapsed on the court.
In a statement released by his first daughter, Mrs. Oluwayemisi Akinadewo, and first son, Mr. Dayo Olubolade, the family confirmed the sudden passing:
“He drove himself to the facility to play lawn tennis in the evening and slumped while playing. Efforts were made by medical officers around to revive him to no avail. He was immediately rushed to Obisesan Naval Medical Hospital, Apapa where he was pronounced dead,” the statement read.
Born on November 30, 1954, Olubolade served Nigeria in several key capacities, including as Minister of Special Duties, Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and Minister of Police Affairs. He was appointed Military Administrator of Bayelsa State in the early days of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, serving with distinction.
Tributes are already pouring in from across the country in recognition of his service to the nation.
Burial arrangements, the family said, will be announced in due course.
