Former Ogun State governor, Sen. Ibikunle Amosun, has shared an astonishing detail about his birth, revealing that his late mother, Rafatu Sanusi-Amosun, carried him in her womb for an extraordinary three and a half years. Speaking at the 25th remembrance prayer for his mother, held at the family residence in Abeokuta, Amosun described his birth as nothing short of a miracle, surprising many who were unsure he was a human being at birth.
During the event, Amosun stressed the importance of honoring parents beyond their lifetime, a value he attributed to teachings from both the Quran and the Bible. “Beyond respecting our parents, the greatest gift we can offer them is prayer,” he noted, explaining that the 25-year milestone prompted a more elaborate remembrance gathering to seek Allah’s forgiveness for his mother.
Reflecting on his birth story, Amosun recalled, “My father, who was not present, even prepared for my burial if I didn’t survive the birth. He named me ‘Duro-o-rike,’ meaning, ‘Stay and be given the best of care.’” He explained that his mother’s unusual pregnancy perplexed many, as it would appear and disappear over time, until his eventual birth surprised the community.
Adding to the story, Amosun’s elder brother, Abidoye Amosun, mentioned that three days before the naming ceremony, their father sent a letter with traditional gifts and the names for the newborn.
The remembrance, attended by prominent Islamic leaders from Egbaland and beyond, as well as former aides and family members, served as a reflection on the fleeting nature of life and a call for prayers for departed souls.
