Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, is currently facing widespread backlash following his controversial remarks about Betsy Obaseki, the wife of Governor Godwin Obaseki, being childless.
The incident has sparked outrage and calls for sanctions from various quarters.
The controversy began at a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) campaign event where Mrs. Obaseki introduced Ifeyinwa Ighodalo, the wife of the PDP's gubernatorial candidate, as the only candidate's spouse in the upcoming Edo election.
During her speech, Mrs. Obaseki urged voters to support a candidate with a wife, implying that it would translate to women's empowerment.
Visibly angered by these comments, Oshiomhole retorted, highlighting the Obasekis' lack of children. "I was shocked to hear Mrs. Obaseki say our candidate has no wife. Here is a woman who has no child. Between them, they are childless and have not adopted," he stated.
These remarks have been condemned as "disgraceful" and "insensitive" by Women for Equality and Empowerment (WEE), a prominent gender advocacy group based in Lagos.
Dr. Ngozi Afolabi, Chairperson of WEE, criticized Oshiomhole, stating, "It is appalling for a public figure of Senator Oshiomhole's stature to engage in such disparaging comments. His statements are a setback for the progress we've made in promoting gender respect and equality in Nigeria."
WEE has called for immediate sanctions from both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Nigerian Senate.
They urge the APC to take decisive action, including formal reprimands and possible suspension from party activities, to demonstrate its commitment to gender equality.
Additionally, they stress the importance of maintaining the integrity of legislative bodies by holding members accountable for their conduct. "The Senate must send a clear message that such behavior is not acceptable and stands firmly against discrimination and disrespect," WEE stated.
They warned that failing to address Oshiomhole's remarks could undermine efforts to achieve gender equality in Nigeria, urging swift and decisive action to uphold principles of respect and dignity.
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