82-Year-Old Former Minister, Professor Stephen Adeyemi Ofokutu, Declares Bid for Owa Obokun Stool

Renowned surgeon, former minister, and administrator, Professor Stephen Debo Adeyemi, CON, has officially declared his intention to contest for the vacant stool of the Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland.

Professor Adeyemi, aged 82, of the Ofokutu Royal Family under the Bilaro-Oluodo Ruling House, made his declaration on Monday at a press conference held at Camp Stephen Centre, Ilesa-Akure Expressway. 

He emphasized his vision to serve the people of Ijesaland through unity, development, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

The position became vacant following the demise of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran, CFR, LLD, the 40th Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland.

Addressing journalists, Professor Adeyemi underscored his readiness to dedicate the remainder of his life to the service of Ijesaland, citing his rich background in healthcare, governance, and international diplomacy.

“I have served as a minister, represented Nigeria in Canada, excelled as a surgeon, and led one of the largest tertiary health institutions in the country. It is now time to bring my experience home to serve the people of Ijesaland,” he stated.

Professor Adeyemi stressed the importance of unity and peace as the foundation for progress in Ijesaland, calling on traditional rulers, community leaders, and youths to work together to harness the region’s abundant resources.

“United we stand, divided we fall. Together, we can explore our God-given resources for the benefit of all,” he declared.

The octogenarian outlined key priorities, including unlocking Ijesaland’s agricultural and mineral potentials. He pledged to address land accessibility, support local processing of gold and other minerals, and mitigate environmental degradation caused by unregulated mining.

“Foreigners have long exploited our resources, leaving us with pollution and land degradation. As Owa Obokun, I will advocate for local production of finished goods to ensure that Ijesa people benefit directly,” he promised.

On security, Professor Adeyemi vowed to collaborate with law enforcement agencies and community stakeholders to create a peaceful environment that fosters economic growth.

As a healthcare professional, he promised to prioritize primary healthcare, child and maternal health, and geriatric care. Additionally, he unveiled plans to tackle youth unemployment through educational reforms, particularly by supporting technical and vocational education.

“Education is the cornerstone of development. We must empower our youth with skills and knowledge to secure their future,” he added.

To promote Ijesaland’s rich cultural heritage, Professor Adeyemi proposed the establishment of an Ijesa Cultural Center, complete with a museum for arts and crafts and a Hall of Fame to honor exceptional Ijesa sons and daughters.

“This initiative will preserve our traditions and inspire younger generations to strive for excellence,” he explained.

Acknowledging the non-political nature of the Owa Obokun stool, Professor Adeyemi pledged to work with all stakeholders, including government authorities, investors, and the Ijesa diaspora, to attract developmental projects to the region.

Professor Stephen Adeyemi, born on December 21, 1942, boasts an illustrious career spanning decades in healthcare and public administration. His achievements include pioneering pediatric surgery in Nigeria, serving as Chief Medical Director of Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), and later as Nigeria’s Minister of Health.

During his tenure as Minister of Health, Professor Adeyemi was instrumental in the establishment of modern healthcare infrastructure and the passage of the National Health Insurance Scheme, a feat that earned him the national honor of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).

Locally, through the Professor Debo Adeyemi Foundation (PRODAF), he has contributed to the development of Ilesa by building the Owa Ofokutu Memorial Ecumenical Center, a 3,000-capacity worship auditorium, alongside a Civic Conference Center and Ijesa Geriatric Center.

“As Owa Obokun, I will bring all my experience to bear to ensure Ijesaland progresses in unity, prosperity, and cultural pride,” he concluded.