As the Mayegun of Iraye Remo celebrates ‘father, political mentor’
Mayegun of Ode Remo
High Chief Kola Ogunjobi, a veteran political leader and respected figure in Remoland, has been celebrated on his 83rd birthday as a man whose decades of leadership, service and mentorship have helped shape generations of political leaders.
The birthday tribute was conveyed by Otunba ’Dare Odufowokan, the Mayegun of Iraye Remo, who described the celebrant as not only a foremost political leader but also his father and mentor.
Odufowokan, in a warm birthday message titled “Happy Birthday Dad: To a Father and Political Mentor on His Special Day,” paid glowing tribute to Ogunjobi, whom he described as a man of uncommon wisdom and enduring influence.
Ogunjobi, the revered Mayegun of Ode Remo and a prominent leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has remained active in political and community affairs over several decades. Recent reports have also identified him as a member of the Ogun State Governor’s Advisory Council and a prominent APC leader in Ogun East.
According to Odufowokan, the celebrant’s journey at 83 represents a remarkable legacy of leadership, courage, service and mentorship.
“Like old wine, as you advance further in age, your life remains a testament to leadership, service, courage and an enduring impact,” Odufowokan said.
He expressed particular gratitude for the guidance and lessons he had received from Ogunjobi, describing their relationship as one that transcends politics and traditional titles.
“I am particularly grateful for your fatherly guidance, mentorship and the invaluable lessons you have shared with me over the years,” he said.
The younger Mayegun also drew a symbolic connection between their traditional titles, describing Ogunjobi as the Mayegun of Ode Remo while proudly identifying himself as the Mayegun of Iraye Remo.
For Odufowokan, the two titles represent more than traditional honours; they reflect a bond built on fatherhood, mentorship, brotherhood and a shared commitment to the advancement of Remoland.
“You are the Mayegun of Ode Remo; following in your steps, I am proudly the Mayegun of Iraye Remo. Different thrones, same spirit of service, brotherhood and commitment to the progress of Remo,” he stated.
Odufowokan himself was installed as the Mayegun of Iraye Remo by the Nloku of Iraye Remo, Oba Adimula Afolabi Ogunlaja, during his 50th birthday celebrations in August 2026.
The birthday message therefore offered a glimpse into the personal dimension of the relationship between the two Mayeguns: one an elder statesman whose political journey spans decades, and the other a younger leader who openly acknowledges the elder as a father and source of guidance.
Beyond partisan politics, Odufowokan’s tribute portrayed Ogunjobi as part of a generation of political leaders whose influence extends through the people they have mentored and the values they have passed down.
As Ogunjobi marks 83, Odufowokan prayed for continued good health, wisdom, strength and longevity for his mentor.
“May your days ahead be filled with peace, joy, fulfilment and the continued honour that your remarkable life deserves,” he said.
He concluded with a deeply personal message that captured the essence of their relationship:
“Sir, Happy Birthday Mayegun, The Great Sage! Long may you live, sir. Karaole o!”
Your son,
Mayegun Otunba ’Dare Odufowokan.
