By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi
Retired Navy Captain Omoniyi Caleb Olubolade, a former Military Administrator of Bayelsa State and prominent public servant, has passed away at the age of 70.
The late Olubolade who served as the Minister of Police Affairs under the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan, died after he slumped during a lawn tennis play-time in Lagos.
Born in Ipoti-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Olubolade died on Sunday, May 11, 2025, in Apapa, Lagos, just months after celebrating his 70th birthday in November, 2024.
According to a joint statement released by his eldest children, Mrs Oluwayemisi Akinadewo and Mr Dayo Olubolade, the retired naval officer had gone out that evening to play lawn tennis at a nearby facility when he suddenly collapsed during the game.
According to the statement: “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.”
Captain Olubolade held various ministerial positions during his career, including Minister of Special Duties, Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, and Minister of Police Affairs.
His contributions to public service and national development earned him respect across Nigeria’s political and military spheres.
He served as the third Governor of Bayelsa State from June 27, 1997, to July 9, 1998.
The statement issued by Olubolade’s children indicated that funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
