Former President, Olusegun Obasanjo made a startling revelation on Thursday, stating that his mother carried his pregnancy for 12 months before he was born.
According to Obasanjo, this unusual delay was attributed to the influence of witches and wizards, who troubled his mother until divine intervention occurred.
Obasanjo shared this personal history during a drama presentation titled “Aremu omo Asabi,” held to commemorate the 66th anniversary of his mother, Mrs. Benice Obasanjo’s death.
The event took place at the main auditorium of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
In a statement released by his Media Assistant, Kehinde Akinyemi, Obasanjo expressed regret that his mother did not live to witness his accomplishments and enjoy the fruits of her labour.
He recounted how out of nine children, only he and his sister survived. He also noted the educational challenges faced by his family, highlighting that he was the only one who attended school due to his father’s belief that educating a female child was unnecessary.
Obasanjo said, “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. I was the only one who went to school because my father’s belief was that no matter how educated a female child is, she would end up in the kitchen.”
The former president also announced his support for the drama troupe’s endeavour to present the longest open drama, aiming to secure a Guinness World Record.
Speaking at the event, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, represented by his Deputy Noimot Salako-Oyedele, emphasized the crucial role of mothers in society.
He praised Mrs Benice Obasanjo’s legacy, stating that her influence continues through her children, particularly Obasanjo, who remains a significant figure in Nigeria’s history.
Governor Abiodun said, “Mothers will forever be the bedrock upon which the foundation of any society is built.
“The musical drama ‘Aremu Omo Asabi’ performed in her honour is not just recounting history but also a prompt reminder of the sacrifices mothers make and the indelible spirit they pass on to their children.”
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Salu Hundeyin, also commended Obasanjo for honouring his late mother 66 years after her passing.
He pointed out that mothers are special instruments in the hands of both God and man, deserving of special treatment and honour.
