Two Women, Two Choices: A Lesson in Loyalty and Gratitude
Flora and Benedicta were two women who married honourable men from the Olukumi tribe—men outside their own ethnic origins, yet deeply respected by their people.
Both husbands rose to prominence. Each served as governor in his state, carrying the trust of the people with dignity.
When illness struck, both families faced tragedy.
Flora’s husband passed away 13 months after completing his 8-year tenure as governor. Instead of bitterness, she embraced her loss with grace. She saw his life of service—as senator and governor—as a divine privilege. With humility, she acknowledged the honour given to him by the people.
Benedicta’s husband also fell sick during his second term and died ten months later. But unlike Flora, she responded with anger. She blamed the people of Olukumi, accusing them of causing her husband’s death “on the throne.” She cursed them, insulted them, and spoke harshly about the very land where her children belonged and whose name they bore. She forgot that a people who elevate a man may one day elevate his children.
The Olukumi are known for hospitality and gratitude—never for ingratitude. They accommodate and welcome other tribes in their country *Naegyeria,* embracing people with warmth and openness.
Benedicta left Olukumi land and returned to her father’s tribe, continuing her castigation and rage against her husband’s people.
But Flora chose a different path. Like Ruth of old, she remained with her husband’s family. Her heart echoed the timeless words:
“Where you go, I will go. Your people will be my people, and your God, my God.
Her loyalty did not go unnoticed. In time, the people of Olukumi honoured her, lifting her up as an ambassador—rewarding her steadfastness, humility, and love.
Congratulations to our own former First Lady of Oyo State, Mrs. Florence Ajimobi, on your nomination as Ambassador.
Your story reminds us that *loyalty is a seed that never fails to bear fruit.*
‘Jide Alofe
An advocate, a PR expert, a media consultant, a brand strategist, a hospitality entrepreneur,
a real estate investor, and a leadership coach.