Former President Olusegun Obasanjo and members of his family, alongside close friends and dignitaries, gathered on Saturday at the Chapel of Christ the Glorious King, Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta, to commemorate the 20th memorial service of the late former First Lady, Mrs. Stella Obasanjo.
The solemn yet reflective service was attended by several notable figures, including former Ogun State Governors Gbenga Daniel and Ibikunle Amosun, as well as family members and associates of the Obasanjo family.
Speaking briefly after the service, Chief Obasanjo described the ceremony as “a celebration of a life of service.”
Delivering a touching tribute, John Abebe, younger brother of the late Mrs. Obasanjo, fondly recalled her warmth and ever-present smile.
“Sister Stella was someone who hardly got angry. Her smile could melt away sorrow. I remember when our eldest brother died—she came home to comfort our parents, and her presence brought peace. That was the kind of person she was,” Abebe shared.
He added that her son, Olumuyiwa Obasanjo, now in his late 40s, and her grandchildren are doing well, describing them as a testament to her enduring legacy.
Olumuyiwa, in his tribute, described his mother as “loving, protective, and disciplined.”
“She was caring but firm. Even as an only child, I understood that her love came with high expectations. I’ve tried to live by the values she taught me,” he said.
Former Governor Gbenga Daniel also paid tribute, thanking God for Stella Obasanjo’s life and influence.
“Twenty years may have passed, but her legacy lives on. During my tenure as Governor, we named a motherless home after her to honour her compassion and service,” Daniel said.
In his sermon, Rev. Yusufu Obaje, the pioneer Chaplain of the State House, Abuja, described the late First Lady as “a woman who lived a life of submission to God and served humanity selflessly.”
He urged attendees to emulate her humility, strength, and faith, noting that “Stella Obasanjo lived a life worthy of remembrance.”
The memorial service ended with hymns, prayers, and heartfelt reflections from family and friends—celebrating a woman whose light continues to shine two decades after her passing.
— Hobnob News
