Edo State lawmaker Hon. Natasha Osawaru Idibia has made a bold public pledge to her grandfather, Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin Kingdom, that she will become President of Nigeria while he is still alive.
The 31-year-old lawmaker, who represents Egor Constituency in the Edo State House of Assembly and currently serves as Minoriíty Leader, delivered the emotional promise during the celebration of Chief Igbinedion’s 92nd birthday in Benin City, Edo State. A video of her speech has since gone viral on social media.
Addressing her grandfather directly at the event, Osawaru expressed deep affection and admiration. “You are amazing, you are like my baby right now, I love you so much. As you age, you become sweeter and better, it is so amazing to be around you, grandpa,” she said.
She then made the striking commitment: “I promise you that I will be the president of this country before you go. And I’ll make you very, very proud.”
In fuller remarks captured in the circulating video, she added: “I will make you very proud, I promise you. Today shall be one of the best of your days and more to come. May God bless you, my grandfather… I promise to do better and better by you every day.”
Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, a prominent businessman, philanthropist, and traditional title holder, is the founder of Igbinedion University in Okada. The birthday gathering drew family members, business associates, and political figures.
Osawaru, the wife of Nigerian music star Innocent Idibia (popularly known as 2Baba), has been rising in Edo State politics. She was elected to the House of Assembly and later appointed Minority Leader. She has described the leadership role as “not a title but a trust.”
This marks the first time the young lawmaker has publicly articulated presidential ambitions. The declaration has generated widespread discussion online, with reactions ranging from support and encouragement to skepticism about the timeline and her political trajectory.
Osawaru’s mother is a daughter of Chief Igbinedion, placing her firmly within one of Edo State’s most influential families. Her comments underscore both her personal bond with her grandfather and her longer-term political aspirations.
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