The profession of Town Planning is often marked by those individuals who employ their talent and resources to enable change and bring forth a vision for a better future. An example of such an individual was Pa Emmanuel Olusoji Ikotun, who began his career with bold gestures that captured the attention of the Town Planning world and changed paradigms. Pa Olusoji Ikotun worked more quietly, shifting the focus to the users of the space and asking themselves how they could best contribute to enriching the lives of those around them. The passage of Pa Olusoji Ikotun is a loss to the town planner profession, the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP). Indeed, the planning family in Nigeria and Africa has lost a gem of no mean value. During his long years of service, he positively impacted Nigeria’s Urban and Regional Planning Practice and Education. He became instrumental in safeguarding the historic beauty of towns and cities, especially in southwest Nigeria, while overseeing a period of significant modernisation.
Born on June 14th, 1939, to the family of late Prophet Pa Ezekiel O. Ikotun and Mrs. Felicia Taiwo Ikotun (Nee Adesinminrin), Pa Olusoji Ikotun attended Local Authority Primary School Oke-Eso, Ilesa from 1952 – 1958; Methodist High School Imesi – ile from 1959 – 1965; The Polytechnic Ibadan HND – 1970 – 1973; Full professional Diploma (Urban and Regional Planning) URP 1978 – 1981. He obtained a master’s degree in Environment Management (MEM) from the University of Ado-Ekiti between 1999-2001.
Widely respected for his quiet authority, Pa Olusoji Ikotun believed that the planning department should operate independently of the Council and be able to exert an objective and professional influence, which at times brought him into conflict with his elected bosses. Those who worked with Pa Olusoji Ikotun remember him as a respected and gifted planner with considerable integrity and intellect.
Pa Olusoji Ikotun, guided by his extensive knowledge, laid the foundations for many of the fastest growing and economically competitive local government Councils in Oyo, Ogun, Ondo, and Osun States. Pa Olusoji Ikotun had many career highlights but, most notably, was instrumental in driving the vision for many Council’s urban extension and rural development, notably as a Town planning officer, Ijesha Southern District Council between 1965 – 1970; Chief Executive officer, Ijebu – Remo area planning authority, Sagamu 1973 – 1974; Chief executive officer, Owo area planning authority, Owo from 1974 – 1976; Chief executive officer, Osun south area planning authority, Iwo, from 1976 – 1982; Principal Town planning officer, Ife central local government, Ile – Ife from 1991- 1993; Chief Town Planning Officer, Ifelodun local government, Ikirun from 1993 – 1994.
Pa Olusoji Ikotun was instrumental in guiding the town through a period of growth and change as Acting Assistant Director, Town Planning Ori – Ade Local government, Ijebu – Jesha 1994 – 199; Assistant Director of Town planning, Irewole Local government functioning as Director of Works 1998 – 2000; Director of Works Aiyedire Local Government, Ile- Ogbo from 2000 – 2002; Director of Town Planning, Atakumosa East Local Government, Iperindo from 2002 – 2004; and Director of Town Planning and Land services, Oriade Local Government Ijebu – Jesha 2004 – 2007 where he retired.
Pa Olusoji Ikotun shaped the Council’s vision for the town centre’s growth, introducing day and night-time economy, improving links to the towns and villages, and creating friendly streets. His legacy continues to live and grow around us across many states in southwest Nigeria. Pa Olusoji Ikotun’s commitment to excellence and tireless efforts to instil knowledge and professionalism has undoubtedly enriched the field and inspired countless young Town Planners.
Outside the councils’ and town planning work, Pa Olusoji Ikotun was also highly active within the Cherubim and Seraphim churches. He was a member of the Cherubim and Seraphim Church till his death. He responded positively to the Lordship of Jesus with an assurance to reign with Jesus Christ eternally. This is the joy of all of us and that of the hosts of heaven. The scripture says: “But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed and keep all his statutes and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die. All his transgressions that he has committed shall not be mentioned unto him: in his righteousness that he hath done, he shall live.” Ezekiel 18: 21 -22.
Pa Olusoji Ikotun got married to late Mrs. Victoria Olufemi Ikotun (Nee Arowolo) in May 1967. The marriage was blessed with godly children. He was a disciplinarian and very hardworking. His vision, desire, and determination to see his children excel academically and in life propelled him to give his best to all his children. He firmly believed that proper education liberates the mind. His die-hard passion for education made him go out of his way to help many, even when it was inconvenient for him and everyone around him.
Pa Olusoji Ikotun loved football and was a member of a school football team during his studentship at Methodist High School Imesi—Ile. He went to be with the Lord Jesus in the late hours of Wednesday, October 23rd, 2024. He left behind a legacy of innovation, compassion, and community spirit that will endure for generations. To God be the glory. Please remember the family in prayer.
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