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Prince Jude Babajide Kayode Rotimi, fondly known as ‘St. Jude,’ has been conferred with the prestigious chieftaincy title of Bobatunwase of Ikotun-Ile by the Obadofin of Ikotun-Ile, Oba David Ajibola Omope, Ilufemiloye I.
The title was bestowed during a grand ceremony on Saturday, September 7, 2024, marking a dual celebration of Oba Omope’s 100th birthday and his 50th coronation anniversary. The event, held at Babalola Mercyland Primary School in Ikotun-Ile, Oke-Ero Local Government Area, attracted dignitaries from across the state.
Several individuals were recognized for their contributions to society, with various chieftaincy titles awarded, including Chief Gbenga Makanjuola, Chief Amos Ajibola Ogunrinde, Chief Olajide Philips, and Chief Jide Adegboyega Oyinloye. Clergy members such as Michael Adeoluwa, Peter Kolajo, and J.A. Gegeoju were also honored.
Prince Jude Rotimi, a United States-based entrepreneur and philanthropist, was unable to attend the event in person due to prior commitments. Represented by his brother, Mr. Dare Rotimi, and his mother, Alhaja M. Rotimi, he expressed his gratitude and commitment to the development of Ikotun-Ile.
In a statement delivered at the event, Chief Rotimi said, “It is a great honor to be named the Bobatunwase of Ikotun-Ile. This title signifies a deeper responsibility to serve my community, and I accept it wholeheartedly.”
Rotimi, who has extensive experience in agriculture and business management, emphasized his dedication to promoting the progress of his hometown, despite his physical absence from the ceremony. “While I deeply regret not being able to attend, I assure Kabiyesi and the entire community of my unwavering support. I have already made my donation toward the N50 million Palace Building Project,” he added.
Reflecting on the leadership of Oba Omope, Prince Rotimi praised the monarch for fostering peace, unity, and development in Ikotun-Ile. He urged all community members to join hands in uplifting the town’s heritage and working towards its advancement.
A proud native of Ikotun-Ile, Prince Jude Rotimi hails from a lineage deeply rooted in the history of the community. Jude’s great-grandfather, Late Pa David Lawani Rotimi, who was also a significant figure in the area, was the father of the late Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola (ROTIMI), a revered figure in Nigeria’s Christian history whose birthplace was notably Ikotun-Ile.
With an academic background in Economics and Accounting from the University of Texas, Prince Rotimi has held leadership roles in various organizations, including the Yoruba Progressive Association of Austin, Texas, and the Kwara State Association of Nigeria in the Diaspora.
Chief Rotimi concluded his statement by thanking family, friends, and associates for their messages of congratulations and for attending the event. He called for collective efforts to ensure the continued progress of Ikotun-Ile and its surrounding communities.
The event was a significant milestone for the Ikotun-Ile community as it celebrated the enduring reign and leadership of Oba Omope, whose influence continues to shape the town’s future.
