- Obasanjo said the gathering was to “celebrate a life of service
- her ever-present smile always brought comfort to those around her
- The memorial marked 20 years since her passing
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, along with his family, aides, and close associates, held a memorial service in Abeokuta on Saturday to honour his late wife and former First Lady, Mrs. Stella Obasanjo, two decades after her passing.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that Mrs. Obasanjo passed away on October 23, 2005, at the age of 59, due to complications from a cosmetic surgery procedure in Spain, which she reportedly arranged ahead of her 60th birthday celebration.
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The surgeon involved, identified as “AM,” was later sentenced to one year in prison in 2009.
The memorial service took place at the Chapel of Christ the King of Glory within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The event drew dignitaries, including former governors Gbenga Daniel and Ibikunle Amosun, as well as members of the Obasanjo and Abebe families.
In a brief remark, Obasanjo said the gathering was to “celebrate a life of service,” describing his late wife as a woman who touched many lives through compassion and grace.
Stella’s younger brother, John Abebe, recalled her ever-present smile, saying it always brought comfort and light to those around her, even during moments of grief.
Her only son, Muyiwa, remembered her as loving yet firm, emphasizing her discipline and guidance as core influences in his life.
Former governors Daniel and Amosun also paid glowing tributes, describing Stella Obasanjo as an elegant and selfless First Lady who served Nigeria with dignity and empathy.
They prayed for her continued rest and urged Nigerians to uphold the values she represented—kindness, integrity, and service.
The memorial marked 20 years since her passing, celebrating her enduring legacy as a symbol of grace and compassion in public life.
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