A Suggestion For Betsy Obaseki: Some Words Of Wisdom

Recently, there has been a heated exchange between the First Lady of Edo State and Senator Adams Oshiomhole. The situation has escalated to a point where condensed passions have sparked numerous interpretations.

The matter has caused tempers to rise, and opinions have been shaped depending on where one’s support lies.

In response to Oshiomhole’s remarks, the First Lady attempted to ingratiate herself with a group of women she referred to as “barren women.” She hoped to use their support to promote her candidate.

However, one must ask, what has she done for these women in her eight years in office? Has she made any effort to improve their situation or show compassion towards them, even in small ways? Has she ever associated with them?

It seems she took it for granted that, like her, these women have no interest in having children or improving their lives. Oshiomhole’s statement, while direct, was not heartless. He acknowledged that being childless is a matter determined by God, not man.

His warning to Edo parents was not about the First Lady’s childless state but about her apparent aversion to children. He wanted to open their eyes to the possibility that the wife of the candidate she supports shares the same disregard for children.

Adopting children in contemporary times goes beyond completing a family; it is a philanthropic and magnanimous act that benefits society as a whole.

Giving the First Lady’s personal circumstances and her lack of involvement with children during her time in office, Oshiomhole cautioned Edo parents that their children may be overlooked if her preferred candidate wins. He pointed out that there are other couples in similar situations as the Obasekis who have shown love for children.

Oshiomhole’s intention was not to demean or ridicule the First Lady but to draw attention to her apparent disregard for children. Unfortunately, the narrative took a different turn the next day, with emotions running high and vitriolic exchanges taking place in the court of public opinion. It is important not to take things out of context.

Mentioning someone’s marital status or lack thereof is indecent. Oshiomhole’s riposte was meant as a warning to mothers and parents in Edo State, as it is no secret that the First Lady has no children and has shown limited love for Edo children. There is no evidence of any pet project for Edo children, despite them being touted as the leaders of tomorrow.

Oshiomhole suggested that the Obaseki couple may have a deliberate animosity towards children or an occultic disposition against them. However, using marital status as a campaign weapon is considered low and distasteful by some.

It is essential to separate personal lives from electioneering, as personal matters are best left out of the public sphere. Resorting to gutter politics is shameful and does not contribute to a healthy political discourse.

Furthermore, Betsy Obaseki’s previous statement about destroying the fabric of society and sending women into prostitution drew condemnation from those in the PDP. Despite her clarification and denial of being quoted out of context, the perception lingered, highlighting the importance of demonstrating commitment to issues affecting women and children.

Betsy Obaseki’s recent denigration of the Kukuruku people of Afemai tribe further showed a lack of respect for other cultures and people in Edo State. It is important for her to exercise decorum and caution in her public utterances to avoid mudslinging that may reflect poorly on her.

We must remember that personal lives should not be used as ammunition in political battles. Let us focus on substantive issues and engage in meaningful discourse for the betterment of Edo State.