Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has praised the Olu of Iju Gbalefa in the Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area of Ogun State, Oba Olufemi Sodeinde, describing him as a selfless royal father whose enduring commitment to humanity deserves emulation.
Obasanjo, who turns 89 on March 5, said attaining the age of 100 is a remarkable milestone. He expressed gratitude to God for granting the monarch the grace of longevity to celebrate a centenary marked by service to his community and humanity.
The elder statesman spoke on Saturday at the monarch’s centenary celebration held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, where dignitaries from across the country gathered to honour the revered traditional ruler.
A documentary screened at the event chronicled the monarch’s life and legacy. Recalling their long-standing relationship, Obasanjo said his association with Oba Sodeinde dates back to 1967, when he served in Ibadan as the Third Area Commander of the Nigerian Army.
“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.
He added that when the Gbalefa community sought a befitting prince to ascend the throne, there was no candidate more qualified than Oba Sodeinde.
“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,” he said.
Obasanjo said although some people had reservations about the monarch’s age at the time of his installation, he was convinced that merit and destiny must take precedence over timing.
“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,” Obasanjo added.
Also speaking, Mrs. Bola Obasanjo described the monarch as a bridge-builder and unifier who embraces all, irrespective of background, ethnicity, or creed.
“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,” she said.
For Mojisola Sodeinde, the monarch’s eldest child, she described her father as highly disciplined and compassionate, whose 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,” she said.
“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 practiced, not merely spoken about. We are proud to have him as our father and pray that God continues to preserve him.”
One of the sons of the revered monarch, Abimbola Sodeinde, described his daddy as a sure bridge builder, who is always ready to listen to his children’s advice to move forward.
“He is a very loving, caring, gentle, hardworking, and selfless person. He is very strict about a few things, like maintaining discipline, and he is always ready to listen to your views whenever you are discussing with him. I prayed God would be with him, as he is the best dad ever,” he said.
Some of the dignitaries, including former 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, also spoke glowingly of the monarch, praying that God grants more strength, good health and wisdom to continue leading his people.
Packaged by Lanre Olabisi
