Why is no one talking about the wives of the gubernatorial candidates in Osun State?
Can we afford to pretend that the roles of First Ladies are not important in government?
The history of First Ladies in democratic governance can be traced to Martha Dandridge Custis Washington, wife of George Washington, one of the Founding Fathers and the first President of the United States of America, who served from 1789 to 1797. Today, the role of First Ladies has become significant and influential in democratic systems across the world.
The phrase, _”the two shall become one,”_ is drawn from Genesis 2:24, Matthew 19:5 and Ephesians 5:31, which describe how a husband and wife become one. This explains why many First Ladies influence decisions through their spouses — whether Presidents, Governors, CEOs, or other leaders.
Therefore, should we not also examine the quality and value of our potential incoming First Lady in Osun State?
This article focuses on the wives of three leading gubernatorial candidates in Osun State: Accord Party, APC, and ADC.
Chief (Mrs.) Titilola Adebusola Adeleke is the current First Lady of Osun State and wife of Governor Ademola Adeleke. She attended Ewela Nursery School, Molusi College, Ijebu-Igbo, and the University of Lagos, where she studied Sociology.
After extensive research and inquiries, I could not find any record of her work experience in either the public or private sector prior to becoming First Lady.
Dr. (Mrs.) Shekinah Oyebamiji, wife of the APC gubernatorial candidate, is a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist. She hails from Lagos but got married to Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji of Ikire, Osun State, in 2003. She is currently a Senior Lecturer at Osun State University, Osogbo, with several publications in reputable local and international medical journals.
Some of her publications include:
_Western Nigeria Journal of Medical Sciences (WNJMS): Pattern of Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infection Following Caesarean Section at an Urban Tertiary Hospital in Lagos, Nigeria_
_Molecular Epidemiology and Phylogenetic Characterisation of High-Risk HPV16 and HPV18 in Selected Nigerian Women_
_A Comparative Evaluation of qPCR and LAMP Assays_
Her academic works are too numerous to be mentioned in this article.
If you wish to know more about her works and impact, it is not enough to search the internet alone; rather, vote her husband into office as the Executive Governor of Osun State on *15th August 2026* to see more of her capacity.
Dr. (Mrs.) Shekinah Oyebamiji is a God-fearing woman, as reflected in her appearance and conduct.
She combines beauty with exceptional brilliance and has demonstrated qualities worthy of trust and responsibility.
*On the flip side*, a popular Nigerian politician once said that he sometimes sought advice from “a mad man in Anambra State.”
Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, by contrast, will always have the benefit of seeking advice from a highly valued executive team, internationally renowned experts, and a woman of exceptional value in his home.
Any man who enjoys peace and happiness at home is more likely to carry out his responsibilities with greater dedication, capacity, and efficiency.
I would have loved to discuss the wife of the ADC candidate, Hon. Najeem Salam. However, his wife, *Mrs. Adebimpe Aduke Salam*, sadly passed away on *5th April 2021*. May her soul continue to rest in perfect peace. Amen.
*Conclusion*
In conclusion, Dr. (Mrs.) Shekinah Oyebamiji stands out as a woman of remarkable academic excellence, professional competence, integrity, and strong moral values.
Her achievements in medicine, research, and public service speak for themselves.
With such qualities, she possesses the potential to make meaningful contributions as First Lady of Osun State.
Her experience, wisdom, and dedication to humanity would undoubtedly be valuable support to her husband *when* the APC emerges victorious in the 2026 governorship election.
And yes — Dr. (Mrs.) Shekinah Oyebamiji is also the President of the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Osun State Chapter. But that is a story for another day
Moshood .A
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