(Prince) Otito Thompson Atikase
Ondo State Representative
(Prince) Otito Thompson Atikase: From Humble Beginnings to Political Big Wig
Born into the royal lineage of Ehinmore, a blend of the Akinneyin Ruling House in the Mahin Kingdom and Agboidun Ruling House in the Ugbo Kingdom, Otito Thompson Atikase was born on May 16, 1970. His name, a legacy passed down by his grandfather, Ehinmore Ezekiel Atikase, was a prophecy setting the stage for a life of impact and leadership.
Otito's educational journey began in the serene confines of Holy Trinity Anglican Primary School, Igbokoda (1979-1984), and progressed through the halls of Ilaje High School (1985-1990) and Methodist High School, Okitipupa (1992-1993). These formative years were a crucible, forging the resilience required to transcend the oppressive boundaries of his environment's inherent challenges.
Defying the constraints of his surroundings, Otito embarked on a tertiary academic venture at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), where he studied Computer Science in the Department of Industrial Mathematics and Computer Science from 1995 to 2001. Here, his political consciousness and leadership understanding began to take root. Representing his department in the Students' Representatives Council (SRC) in 1996-1997 was merely a prelude to his consequential election as President of the FUTA SU Government in 1997-1998.
Otito's passion for service extended beyond academic leadership. He served as the National Secretary of the National Association of Ilaje Students (NAIS) between 1997 and 1998, channeling his dedication towards his peers' collective welfare and progress. This commitment burgeoned as he joined the Niger Delta Youth Movement (NDYM), eventually serving as the National Welfare Officer from 2002 to 2004, advocating for the development and well-being of the broader Niger Delta community.
Recognition of his contributions wasn't long in coming. The Ondo State Government appointed him to the State Library Board from 2003 to 2005, an opportunity that further highlighted his administrative capabilities. This experience paved the way for a significant role as an Administrative Officer at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) from 2004 to 2006.
Yet, the call to serve his community resonated strongly, leading Otito to resign from NDDC and embrace leadership as an elected Ondo State House of Assembly member in 2007. His tenure was marked by active participation across several committees, contributing significantly to education, youth development, state development goals, and the welfare of oil-producing areas.
Otito's political journey continued to ascend, and from 2015 to 2016, he served as the Senior Special Assistant to the governor on political matters. This role positioned him as a critical player in the state's political landscape. His ability to lead and connect with the grassroots was further endorsed when he served as the Caretaker Chairman for Ilaje Local Government from 2018 to 2020. His influence within local government circles was recognized as he chaired the Association Of Local Governments Of Nigeria (ALGON), Ondo State Chapter, from 2019 to 2020.
Not one to rest on past laurels, Otito remained an active participant in shaping the political future of his community and state. He played a significant role in the APC National Convention as a committee member in 2022. He demonstrated strategic political insight as the Director General of the Tinubu/Shetima Campaign Council, Ilaje Local Government, in 2023.
Beyond the political arena, Otito Thompson Atikase is a family man, blessed with a loving wife and wonderful children, grounding his public service in the richness of his private joy. His journey, punctuated by various roles in service to his people, underscores a life dedicated to uplifting others, reflecting his deep-rooted commitment to societal advancement.
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