Nigeria Men’s Forum for Ethical Leadership Demands Apology from Edo First Lady Over Insensitive RemarkThe Nigeria Men’s Forum for Ethical Leadership (NMFEL) has called on Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, to issue a public apology following her controversial statement regarding the marital status of gubernatorial candidates in Edo State. During a recent public appearance, Mrs. Obaseki claimed that out of all the candidates vying for the governorship, only the PDP candidate, Asue Ighodalo, has a wife, urging Edo women to reject the others based on this premise.....CONTINUE READING THE ARTICLE FROM THE SOURCE
This remark has sparked widespread outrage, particularly from NMFEL, a prominent advocacy group focused on promoting ethical leadership.
Addressing journalists at a press conference in Benin City, NMFEL’s National President, Emeka Peters, condemned the First Lady’s statement as “reckless and highly insensitive.” Peters stated that Mrs. Obaseki’s comments are not only misleading but also disrespectful to the many hardworking men who strive daily to support their families, irrespective of their marital status.
“Nigerian men, especially those in Edo State, have shown great resilience and commitment to raising families and contributing positively to society. For Mrs. Obaseki to suggest that a man’s worth is tied to his marital status is an insult to every man who works tirelessly to provide for his loved ones,” Peters said.
He further emphasized that the First Lady, as a public figure, should uphold the values of respect and professionalism, and should not resort to divisive and demeaning rhetoric. The Forum urged Mrs. Obaseki to retract her statement and apologize to all men who feel offended by her remarks.
NMFEL reiterated its commitment to promoting ethical leadership and stated that it would continue to hold public officials accountable for their words and actions.
