The Ode-Aye community in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State has continued to receive tributes following the death of renowned community leader and retired army officer, Christopher Olatubara Ikutiminu, with associates describing his passing as a monumental loss.
In a tribute, High Chief S.K. Ogunboye recounted the life and contributions of the late Ikutiminu, highlighting his early brilliance, military career, and enduring impact on community development.
According to Ogunboye, Ikutiminu showed exceptional promise from a young age, completing his Standard Six education in 1954 at the age of 14 after spending just six years in primary school instead of the conventional eight.
He was later admitted to Government Elementary School (G.E.S) College, Warri, where he distinguished himself as an outstanding student between 1959 and 1961.
Ikutiminu joined the Nigerian Army in 1963 and rose through the ranks to retire as a Major in 1980. Following his retirement, he was installed as the Oyewogha of Ode-Aye Kingdom, further cementing his influence in traditional and community affairs.
Ogunboye noted that the late chief was a trailblazer in infrastructure development, having built the first cement block storey building in Ode-Aye in 1968, a landmark achievement at the time.
Beyond his professional and traditional roles, Ikutiminu was described as a devoted Christian and a pillar of support within the Anglican Communion. He reportedly contributed significantly to the growth of the church, particularly within the Diocese of Ondo, both before and after the creation of the Diocese on the Coast in 1995.
His social contributions were equally notable. He was the pioneer president of the Layelu Club in 1980 and later served as President of the Ode-Aye Development Association (ODA) from 1983 to 1993. He also played a central role in the establishment of the Federation of Ode-Aye Development Associations (FODA) in 1985, where he served as its pioneer president.
The federation organised the first Layelu Day in 1986—an initiative that has since evolved into an annual cultural event in the community.
Ogunboye added that Ikutiminu was instrumental in the construction of the Layelu Hall, described as the first of its kind in the local government area and a symbol of communal progress.
He also recalled the late chief’s personal relationships, noting that his marriage in 1967 strengthened long-standing family and social ties.
Describing his death as a profound loss, Ogunboye said Ikutiminu’s legacy would be remembered across the community, the Anglican Church, and among family and friends.
“The demise of Chief Ikutiminu is a monumental loss to Ode-Aye, the church, his family, and to me personally,” he said.
The late Ikutiminu is widely remembered for his leadership, service, and enduring contributions to the development of Ode-Aye.
