Politics
Oshiomhole Faces Backlash Over Comment on Gov Obaseki’s Wife’s Childlessness
Oshiomhole’s comments about Gov Obaseki’s wife’s childlessness have drawn widespread criticism, with many calling his remarks insensitive.
Adams Oshiomhole, a Senator representing Edo North, has caused controversy with his reported comments about Betsy – the wife of Godwin Obaseki, Governor of Edo State – who he claimed “does not have children.”
The response, which has received extensive backlash, was given concerning an incident that occurred during the Esan South-East LGA Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship campaign at Ubiaja Township Stadium.
At a campaign event, Betsy Obaseki presented Ifeyinwa Ighodalo – the wife of Asue Ighodalo, who was running for PDP governorship – to the audience. During her speech, Betsy emphasized that only Ighodalo had a partner in the imminent September 21 election and implored women voters to back him as it would signify support for gender empowerment.
Betsy suggested campaigning and voting for the most suitable candidate in the upcoming election. She also took the opportunity to introduce Asue Ighodalo’s wife, pointing out that he is currently the only candidate with a spouse among all those running.
During an interview with reporters, Oshiomhole was taken aback by Betsy’s remarks. Specifically, he was surprised when she stated that the APC governorship candidate Monday Okpebholo did not have a wife. Following this revelation, Oshiomhole made a direct comment about Betsy and her husband Governor Obaseki regarding their lack of children and decision against adoption.
Oshiomhole expressed his shock at the statement made by Mrs. Obaseki, who is the first lady, about our candidate having no wife. He apologized for her remark since she herself does not have any children and neither do they plan on adopting one with Mr. Obaseki also being childless in this scenario as well.