I spent 12 months in my mother’s womb – Obasanjo

Former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo expressed sorrow over the fact that his mother did not have the opportunity to witness his achievements despite carrying him in her womb for a period of 12 months.

During the 66th remembrance event dedicated to his late mother at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Obasanjo delivered a speech at the viewing of the play titled “Aremu Omo Asabi.”

He mentioned that his mother faced challenges from supernatural forces while pregnant with him, and he regretted that she could not experience the outcomes of her efforts.

Obasanjo said: “I was told I was in her 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 but 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 Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, in his address, praised Mama Bernice Obasanjo as an exceptional individual during her lifetime, emphasizing that her impact would persist through the legacy of her offspring, particularly Chief Obasanjo, a prominent figure in the history of Nigeria.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Abiodun emphasized the crucial role of mothers as the cornerstone upon which the societal structure is founded.

He affirmed that the musical performance not only recounted past events but also served as a poignant reminder of the immense sacrifices made by mothers.

“This tribute is also a call to action for all of us to honour and support mothers in every way possible. It is a reminder of our collective responsibility to create an enabling environment where every mother’s hope for their children can flourish. 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,” he said.

Furthermore, the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the state government’s secretary, Mrs. Salu Hundeyin, lauded Chief Obasanjo for commemorating his late mother six decades after her passing. Sanwo-Olu highlighted the unique and vital role that mothers play as divine and earthly instruments, deserving of special treatment and utmost respect.