Obasanjo, Amosun, Egba Traditional Rulers Celebrate Oba Sodeinde On Centenary Birthday

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, alongside his wife, Mama Bola Obasanjo, over the weekend, paid glowing tribute to the Olu of Iju, Gbalefa in Ado-Odo/Ota local government area of Ogun State, Oba Olufemi Sodeinde, whose 100th birthday was celebrated as a monarch amidst pumps and pageantry.

The former president and his wife described the monarch, who ascended the throne at the age of 95, as a unifier and bridge-builder who embraces all, irrespective of background.

Describing Oba Sodeinde as a “selfless royal father, whose enduring love for humanity is worth being emulated,” Obasanjo noted that his attainment of the 100 years on earth was a great feat which any human being on earth could pray for, particularly when Oba Sodeinde was still blessed with good health and clear vision.

Speaking in a documentary packaged together in honour of the monarch at the centenary celebration, held in the Mckay Hall of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, the former president rejoiced with the monarch for what he termed as “God’s special favour” of longevity and the grace to positively impact his community.

Obasanjo, who described the monarch as “my egbon,” passionately recalled his relationship with Oba Sodeinde, which he said dated back to year 1967, while serving in in the Nigerian Army (NA) as the 3rd Area Commander in Ibadan.

“One thing Kabiyesi has done exceptionally well for all of us who are sons and daughters of Owu Kingdom is that he stood firmly for the people of Owu in the Gbalefa community,” Obasanjo said.

“When it was time to install a traditional ruler in Gbalefa, there was nobody in every sense of the word more qualified than Oba Sodeinde. I even joked with him because he was already above 90 when he was installed.

“Some people had reservations, but I said what must be done must be done, regardless of timing. It is better late than never. Certainly, 100 years is not a joke. I congratulate my elder brother and pray that the good Lord will uphold him to the very end.”

In her own goodwill message which she delivered at the event before supervising cutting of the centenary cake, Obasanjo’s wife described the monarch as a unifier and bridge-builder who embraces all, irrespective of background.

“What I have observed about our revered Baba is his love for everyone, regardless of where they come from. There was a time Baba stayed with us, and one could see how he appreciated even the smallest gestures in extraordinary ways.

“He is deeply committed to impacting lives and fostering unity. We thank God for such a worthy life of service and pray that the Almighty will continue to strengthen Kabiyesi.”

In her own words of testimony, one of the Oba Sodeinde’s Queens, Madam Jolaoso Sodeinde said she has seen “good things” throughout the past 70- years she had married the monarch.

“If I have the opportunity of returning to this life for a second time, I would love to marry him again because Kabiyesi has been so good to humanity around him all through.”

The monarch’s first child, Mojisola Sodeinde, described her father as highly disciplined and compassionate, noting that his leadership philosophy is rooted in humility and service.

“Kabiyesi is not only a revered monarch; he is my father. I have had the rare privilege of observing him closely, both in public service and in private life.

“He taught us that leadership is about humility and that true strength lies in compassion. He also instilled in us that unity, peace and harmony must be actively practised, not merely spoken about. We are proud to have him as our father and pray that God continues to preserve him,” she said.

Other dignitaries, who eulogised the monarch included former Ogun State governor Ibikunle Amosun, who was represented by his wife, Mrs. Olufunso Amosun; Egba High Chief, Chief Doja Adewolu; and former Ogun State House of Assembly member, Hon. Johnson Fatoki, among others.