Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has extolled the Olu of Iju, Gbalefa in Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area of Ogun State, Oba Olufemi Sodeinde, describing him as a selfless and exemplary royal father whose life of service deserves emulation.

Obasanjo said attaining the age of 100 was no small feat, expressing gratitude to God for granting the monarch longevity and the grace to make lasting positive impacts on humanity.

The elder statesman spoke on Saturday at the monarch’s centenary celebration held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, where dignitaries from across Ogun State gathered to honour the revered traditional ruler.

A documentary screened at the event chronicled Oba Sodeinde’s life, values, and contributions to society. Reflecting on their long-standing relationship, Obasanjo said his association with the monarch 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 while there were initial reservations in some quarters, he believed justice and fairness must prevail regardless of timing.

“What must be done must be done. 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 further noted that when the time came to install a traditional ruler in Gbalefa, Oba Sodeinde stood out as the most qualified candidate.

“There was nobody, in every sense of the word, more qualified than him. I even joked with him because he was already above 90 when he was installed,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, Mrs Bola Obasanjo described the monarch as a bridge-builder and unifier who embraces people irrespective of background.

“What stands out about our revered Baba is his love for everyone, regardless of where they come from. He values even the smallest gestures in extraordinary ways,” she said.

“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 continues to strengthen Kabiyesi.”

The monarch’s first child, Mojisola Sodeinde, described her father as disciplined, compassionate, and deeply humble, noting that his leadership philosophy is rooted in 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 and private life,” she said.

“He taught us that leadership is about humility, and that true strength lies in compassion. He instilled in us the values of unity, peace, and harmony—not just as ideals, but as daily practices.”

Other dignitaries who paid glowing tributes to the monarch included former Ogun State governor Ibikunle Amosun, 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.