The race to become the Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland is already gathering steam, with many from the royal houses signifying interest.
The latest person to declare his intention is a former minister of health in the administration of former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, Prince Stephen Debo Adeyemi (CON).
The Canada-trained Professor of Medicine and accomplished administrator, Adeyemi of the Ofokutu Royal Family under the Bilaro Oluodo Ruling House, Ilesa, has subsequently outlined his vision to serve the people of Ijesaland with a commitment to unity, development, and cultural preservation.
Having faithfully observed the traditional mourning period for His Imperial Majesty Oba Dr Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran, CFR, LLD, the 40th Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland, Professor Adeyemi expressed his readiness to dedicate his life to the service of Ijesaland.
In a statement obtained on Wednesday, the medical expert cited his extensive experience in governance, healthcare, and international diplomacy as a solid foundation for his aspirations.
“I have served my country as a minister, represented Nigeria in Canada, excelled as a surgeon, and managed one of the largest tertiary health institutions in the country. It is now time to serve my people of Ijesaland directly,” he stated.
Commenting further, Adeyemi emphasised the need for unity, peace, and collaboration among the people of Ijesaland, stressing that these values are essential for progress.
He pledged to work closely with traditional rulers, community leaders, and entrepreneurs to harness the region’s abundant resources, including its fertile land, industrious population, and creative youth.
“United we stand, divided we fall. Together, we can explore our God-given endowments for the benefit of all,” he further said.
Highlighting the vast agricultural and mineral wealth of Ijesaland, Adeyemi proposed a cooperative approach to land management, agricultural expansion, and industrial development.
He vowed to address issues of land accessibility and promote local processing of gold and other minerals to benefit the people while mitigating environmental degradation.
He added, “Foreigners and non-indigenes have benefitted from our resources, leaving us with land degradation and pollution. As Owa Obokun, I will advocate for local production of finished goods to ensure our people benefit directly.
“On security, I pledge to collaborate with law enforcement agencies and community leaders to create a peaceful environment conducive to development and economic growth.
“As a healthcare professional, I will prioritise primary healthcare, child and maternal health, and geriatric care in Ijesaland.
He also promised to champion education by supporting primary and technical education to reduce illiteracy and tackle youth unemployment, saying that “education is the cornerstone of development. We must empower our youth with skills and knowledge to secure their future.
“In a bid to safeguard the rich cultural heritage of Ijesaland, I will propose the establishment of an Ijesa Cultural Center. The centre will include a museum for Ijesa arts and crafts and a Hall of Fame to honour outstanding sons and daughters of the land.
“This initiative will inspire the younger generation to strive for excellence while preserving our traditions for posterity.”
Acknowledging that the office of Owa Obokun is non-political, Adeyemi promised to work with all stakeholders, including government authorities, local and foreign investors, and the Ijesa diaspora, to attract development projects to Ijesaland.
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