Aliu Yesufu, the husband of Aisha Yesufu, a co-founder of the ‘Bring Back Our Girls’ movement, shared an unexpected aspect of the activist’s past. He revealed that when they first met, Aisha was a reserved young woman who felt nervous about speaking in public.
During a symposium in Abuja celebrating the 70th birthday of Pastor Chinedu Ezekwesili, husband of former Minister of Education, Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili, Aliu reminisced, “When I married Aisha, she was in her 300 Level. She was not known then. She was shy and hesitant about public speaking.”
Aliu recounted how he used to read speeches for her and coach her on public speaking until she gained confidence. He emphasized the importance of not always asserting authority, especially in relationships, and highlighted the dangers of competing with one’s spouse.
“A man shouldn’t always use his authority, even if his religion allows it. He shouldn’t try to outdo his wife. Often, we want to be the ones giving orders and watching women follow them. This may be why many wars in history were started by men,” he remarked.
Despite her initial shyness, Aliu acknowledged that perceptions of his wife changed significantly when she delved into activism and her anti-corruption campaign. He humorously recalled moments when family, friends, and associates would ask how he managed living with such a strong-willed and outspoken woman.
“Pastor Chinedu and I share a similar experience. Our wives are more famous than us, and we have come to accept that. Like him, I still affectionately call my wife ‘baby.’ We understand that men may feel challenged by marrying women like Aisha or Ezekwesili,” he shared with a smile.
Reflecting on the reactions they often faced, Aliu mentioned, “Have you ever been asked to step aside because someone wanted to take a photo with your wife? That has happened to me quite often. It’s quite amusing, and most times, it’s the younger generation who do it.”
He also touched on societal perceptions of women in activism, particularly when married, adding, “Many people believe that no woman, especially a married one, should be involved in the kind of work Aisha is doing. There was a time when my family and friends would ask how I managed living with her. But I always reassured them that it wasn’t difficult.”
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