Former President Olusegun Obasanjo shared a remarkable personal story at a drama presentation titled “Aremu Omo Asabi,” marking the 66th anniversary of his mother, Bernice Obasanjo’s passing.
Held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Ogun State, the event was a tribute to the life and influence of his late mother.
Obasanjo recounted a unique aspect of his birth, stating that his mother carried him in her womb for 12 months due to what he attributed to the interference of witches and wizards.
This supernatural interference, according to Obasanjo, caused significant hardship for his mother before God’s intervention facilitated his birth.
He said, “My mother carried my pregnancy for 12 months before I was born, and it was said that witches and wizards were at play.
“She bore nine children, but only two of us, myself and my sister, survived.
“I was the only one who received an education, as my father 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.”
In his reflection, Obasanjo expressed sorrow that his mother did not live to witness his achievements and enjoy the benefits of her sacrifices.
Despite having given birth to nine children, only Obasanjo and his sister survived to adulthood.
He highlighted the educational barriers faced by his family, noting that his father’s belief in limiting education for females—viewing it as unnecessary—meant that he was the only child who received formal schooling.
The former president also voiced his support for the troupe’s ambitious goal of achieving a Guinness World Record for the longest open drama performance.
He praised the performance as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices mothers make and the enduring impact they have on their children.
Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele, praised Obasanjo’s mother as a foundational figure whose influence persists through her children.
“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,” she said.
“This is why the present administration continues to pursue policies that ensure access to quality education, healthcare, and opportunities for all so that the dreams that mothers have for their children can be realised.”
The deputy governor emphasised the significance of honouring and supporting mothers and highlighted the administration’s commitment to policies that support quality education, healthcare, and opportunities for children.
