HOW UNIMED REGISTRAR WAS MURDERED IN AKURE: POISON FORCED DOWN HIS THROAT, SAYS ONDO POLICE

... As She Reflects on Her Years in Service, Her Passion for Alaga Traditions, and the Joy of Family Life

Princess Evangelist Jokotade Ojuolape is royalty by birth, a sports trailblazer by passion, and a gospel voice by divine calling. With over 30 years in civil service, she is a celebrated athlete who proudly represented Nigeria in volleyball at a young age, winning gold medals and national acclaim.

A veteran gospel singer with six albums to her name, she also has over 12 years of experience as a respected Alaga Iduro/Ijoko — blending tradition, spirituality, and culture in ceremonial engagements. Add to that her unwavering love for Arsenal FC, and she truly embodies a rare mix of grace, grit, and God’s favour.

In this exclusive conversation with Princess Adeola Shittu, she reflects on her extraordinary journey at 67 — and how she continues to live a life driven by passion, discipline, and divine purpose.

Tell me briefly about yourself

Thanks so much. I’m Princess Evangelist Jokotade Ojuolape. I was born into the royal family of Oba Jolande in the 1950s, and my mother is also a princess from the Adesida dynasty. My father was the Oba of Ero Ekiti in Ifedore Local Government Area of Ekiti State. I attended Methodist Primary School, Methodist High School, Teachers’ College, and other tertiary institutions. I am happily married with both boys and girls, all of whom are doing well in their respective fields.

Put us through your growing up days

I had a very fun and fulfilling childhood. The most exciting part was my passion for sports. I started playing netball in primary school, and also played football for my school. When I got to secondary school, my passion grew. I played netball, football, volleyball, and I also ran for my school in athletics.

While at First High School, Ondo, I was selected to represent the Western State in volleyball. After the state was split in 1976, I moved to Akure and represented Ondo State. I was later invited to represent Nigeria in volleyball.

As the only child of my mother, I had a lot of attention. Although I was pampered, my mother was a disciplinarian. Unlike my father who pampered me, she would always say, “Don’t think because I had you late that I will spoil you.” She prepared me for life. May her soul rest in peace.

What inspired your passion for sports?

I’d say my father. He was a sportsman during the colonial era. He ran for his school as well. From my early days in primary school, I knew I had a talent for sports. I was always part of the school relay team. By God’s grace, I excelled in every sport I participated in during my school days.

As a sportswoman, which sport is your favourite?

I love football! I’m a die-hard Arsenal fan (laughs). Even if my club is not doing well, I remain loyal. Arsenal for life.

Having worked with the Ondo State Ministry of Sports for 35 years before retirement, tell us about your journey as a civil servant.

I started out as a teacher at St. Michael High School, Ijoka Road. I later became an Inspector of Education before joining the Sports Council as an Organizer. I served in various departments, including Volleyball, Tennis, Gymnastics, and other sports.

As a Sports Organizer, what challenges did you face?

Of course, we faced challenges daily, but by God’s grace, there was no challenge I couldn’t handle. All my coaches and athletes loved me. I remember when I was transferred from tennis to basketball — all the players dropped their rackets in protest. Later, I moved to volleyball, then gymnastics, Kakuwado, and karate. I also coordinated traditional games like Ayo Olopon and Abula, serving as their secretary. I eventually retired as a Director in the Ministry.

Since retirement, what have you been doing? Any plans to promote sports?

I’ve been busy with my grandchildren and other businesses. I’m also planning something, but it’s in God’s hands. At the right time, it will be unveiled. I love football and I’m working towards setting up an academy — though we know it's financially demanding. If it works out, it will focus on football.

Why football and not volleyball?

Football remains the most universal sport today. Nigerian girls are naturally talented in it. Girls only need a little effort to excel, unlike the boys who have to push harder. If things go as planned, I hope to start an academy for the girl-child to give them a platform to thrive like the boys.

Aside from sports, you’re also a leading gospel singer in Ondo State. What inspired you to go into music? How do you compare sports with music?

Thank you. My late father inspired my passion for sports, and my mother inspired my love for music. She was a wonderful singer. During festivals at the Deji of Akure's palace, the then-Deji would personally ask if she had arrived to sing. When my father became king, he always wanted her to sing his oriki, and he would respond with prayers.

I’ve been a church choir member since my primary school days and I still sing at CAC Oke-Gangan, Akure.

Did you train under anyone in music?

No, I didn’t. I never had a music tutor. Even for my Alaga Iduro/Ijoko role, I never had a mentor. I simply discovered and developed my God-given talent — and I’ve been doing this even before I retired.

How were you able to manage music alongside your civil service job?

Back then, engagements were mostly on Fridays or Saturdays, unlike now when some are fixed on weekdays. I always completed my assignments before attending events. My bosses were very understanding. I had a solid Alaga team and band members. To God be the glory, I’ve released six 

albums. I balanced it well and it never interfered with my job.

Which of your albums brought you to the limelight?

All my albums helped. But I also received overwhelming support from families and clients. One client once rejected another performer and insisted I should sing at his event. He said he loved my voice, my stage presence, and the way I sing. I had performed at his father’s burial, and when his mother passed, he and his siblings unanimously agreed that I should return.

How long have you been singing?

I started in the church choir during primary school, but professionally, I’ve been singing for over 30 years.

Mention some of your albums

I have six albums: my first album was Millennium Album (cassette era), followed by Omo Ni De, Yes I Know, Sing Aloud Vol. 1 & 2 and Ope T’o Si (released in December)

Any plans for collaboration with other artists?

Yes, I’ve done a few already and I’m open to more.

How long has your band been with you?

About 30 years. Many of them joined me when they were in secondary school. We’ve been together for decades. Even if I travel abroad, they can handle a performance without me.

In a short word, will you say your retirement been filled with engagements?

Yes o! And the most important part has been the omugwo (grandchild care). I travel a lot to help my children, and my career hasn't suffered because of it.

Are you fulfilled?

If I say I’m not fulfilled, I’d be denying God. I am completely fulfilled. My children and in-laws love and celebrate me. During my last birthday, their tributes made me emotional. I constantly pray for them. One of my daughters once said, “If you want to see the other side of my mum, touch any of her children or in-laws.” They are my world and my joy. Even in retirement, God is using them to bless me.

You recently celebrated your 67th birthday. How do you feel, and what’s the secret behind your flawless look?

(Laughs) Thank you! Honestly, I feel deeply grateful. It’s not by power or might, but purely by the grace of God. Turning 67 is a gift I don’t take for granted. I’m healthy, happy, fulfilled, and surrounded by love — and that alone is a blessing.

As for my look, I’ll say it’s God first. Then again, it comes from peace of mind, contentment, and living a purposeful life. I don’t stress unnecessarily. I stay active, eat well, laugh often, sing, pray — and of course, I never miss my sports, especially watching my club, Arsenal. (Smiles) Those are my beauty secrets: simple, godly, and true.

And I make sure to carry myself with grace. I believe every woman, regardless of age, should take care of herself inside and out. Age is just a number — it’s your spirit that must stay young.

At 67, do you have any regrets?

Honestly, I don’t live in regret. Life isn’t perfect, but I’ve come to see every experience — whether good or painful — as part of God’s divine script for my life.

There were sacrifices and hard moments, yes, but I’ve gained far more than I’ve lost. I choose to count my blessings, not my mistakes. I’m grateful for where God has brought me, for the grace to keep going, and for the joy that fills my heart today.

Are any of your children following in your footsteps?

Yes. One of my sons is a footballer, another plays basketball and sponsors a basketball league across the Southwest. My first son is a graphic designer and one of the best in his field. My first daughter is into music and Alaga like me. She is also a lecturer in Abeokuta, Ogun State. One time, we had two events in different locations on the same day. I sent her to one and attended the other. The feedback I received from her event was outstanding — they even said she was better than me! (laughs)

My last born is a prophetess. Another daughter is into cooking. She runs a food business abroad — selling Moi-Moi, stews, and other African dishes. She proudly says she took her culinary skills from me. I cook well and still cook for my own events. I even cooked for my last birthday myself. Even my boys are great chefs.

How do you unwind?

I listen to music and watch football. I remember traveling to Lagos with my decoder just to keep up with live matches — especially Champions League, Premier League, La Liga, Serie A. I don’t joke with Arsenal games. My children know not to interrupt me unless it’s urgent.

Follow PriJokotadekotade Ojuolape on all her social media platforms for bookings and collaborations. Thank you.