Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, on Thursday, shared a remarkable story about his birth, revealing that his mother carried his pregnancy for 12 months due to the influence of witches and wizards.
Obasanjo made this revelation during a drama presentation titled: “Aremu Omo Asabi,” held to commemorate 66 years since the passing of his mother, Bernice Obasanjo.
The event took place at the main auditorium of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.
Obasanjo, in a statement by his media assistant, Kehinde Akinyemi, recounted the difficulties his mother faced before his birth, attributing the delay to supernatural forces.
He however expressed gratitude for God’s intervention, which eventually led to his birth.
“I was told I was in my mother’s womb for 12 months, and since I was born, I have not been left for once. She had nine children, but two of us survived, myself and my sister,” Obasanjo shared.
He also noted the challenges his family faced, emphasising that he was the only child who received education due to his father’s belief that educating a female child was unnecessary.
Obasanjo lamented that his mother did not live to see his accomplishments and enjoy the fruits of her labour.
He vowed to support the drama troupe’s ambition to set a Guinness World Record for the longest open drama performance.
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun who was represented at the event by his deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, praised Obasanjo’s mother, describing her as a foundational figure whose influence persists through her children.
“Mothers will forever be the bedrock upon which the foundation of any society is built,” she said.
She highlighted the sacrifices mothers make and the lasting spirit they impart to their children.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Salu Hundeyin, commended Obasanjo for honouring his mother 66 years after her passing.
He stressed the importance of treating mothers with respect and recognising their critical role in both divine and human contexts.
The event underscored the vital role of mothers and the enduring impact of their sacrifices, and also served as a call to action for society to support and honour mothers, ensuring that their dreams for their children are realised through access to quality education, healthcare, and opportunities.
The musical drama, ‘Aremu Omo Asabi,’ performed in celebration of Bernice Obasanjo’s life, was not just a historical recount but also a poignant reminder of the strength and resilience of mothers.
Governor Abiodun highlighted the current administration’s commitment to policies that support mothers and their aspirations for their children’s futures.
“This tribute is also a call to action for all of us to honour and support mothers in every way possible. It reminds us of our collective responsibility to create an enabling environment where every mother’s hope for their children can flourish,” Abiodun stated.
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