The former president, Olusehun Obasanjo stated on Thursday that his mother carried his pregnancy for a full year before giving birth.
According to Obasanjo, his mother had a difficult time before God intervened, and this was the reason for the delay in his birth.
The former president made this revelation during a drama performance named “Aremu omo Asabi,” which was held to commemorate Mrs. Benice Obasanjo, the late president’s mother,
The drama took place on Wednesday in the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library’s largest auditorium in the capital city of Ogun State, Abeokuta.
Obasanjo had grieved that his mother would never be able to see how wonderful God had helped him become in life, let alone enjoy the results of her hard work.
He stated that his mother gave birth to nine children, but only two of them, himself and his sister, survived.
Obasanjo said , “I was informed I was in my mother’s womb for 12 months, and since I was born, I have not been left once. She had nine children, two of whom survived: myself and my sister.
“I was the only one who went to school because my father believed that no matter how well educated a female child is, she will end up in the kitchen.”
During the show, Obasanjo also pledged his support for the group’s attempt to set a Guinness Book of Records record for the longest open drama.
Speaking at the event, state governor Dapo Abiodun represented by his deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele stated that moms will always be the cornerstone around which any community is constructed.
Abiodun praised Obasanjo’s mother as a great woman and stated that her impact will carry on in the lives of her offspring, particularly Obasanjo, who is still a powerful figure in Nigerian history.
The governor went on to say that the musical drama titled ‘Aremu Omo Asabi‘, which was presented in honour of her life, was not only a historical record, but also a timely reminder of the sacrifices mothers make and the indelible spirit they carry on to their children.
“This tribute serves as a call to action for all of us to honour and assist mothers in whatever manner we can.
“It reminds us of our joint responsibility to foster an atmosphere in which every mother’s hope for her children can thrive.
Also speaking, his Lagos State Governor , Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Salu Hundeyin, praised Obasanjo for honouring his late mother after 66 years, stating that mothers are special instruments in the hands of God and man who must be treated with special care and respect.
In Essence
The event serves as a tribute to the enduring influence of mothers and the legacy they leave behind. By honoring his mother, Obasanjo acknowledges the foundational role she played in his life, even if she did not live to see his accomplishments
