Omobomi Oluwatoyin Christianah, a physically challenged student of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Akure Study Centre, has narrated how an intervention by Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire has saved her from missing her examinations.
Senator Adegbonmire is the lawmaker representing Ondo Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly.
Omobomi, a 300-level student from Akure South, had been unable to raise her tuition fees.
With examinations scheduled to begin next month, she turned to her friend for advice on how to handle the situation.
According to her, it was this friend who suggested reaching out to Adegbonmire, the senator who represents Ondo Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly.
Initially, Omobomi said she dismissed the idea, doubting a politician would respond to her request.
She explains: “I was not convinced at first. People often say politicians are selfish and do not care about ordinary citizens. I didn’t think the senator would even pick my call, let alone assist me. But my friend encouraged me to try.”
Omobomi eventually sent a message introducing herself and appealing for help.
In the message, she wrote: “Good afternoon my amiable senator. My name is Omobomi Oluwatoyin Christianah from Akure South. I am a physically challenged lady and a student of National Open University, Akure Study Centre. I need financial assistance to pay for my school fees. God will not let you down in Jesus’ name.”
To her surprise, the senator replied within minutes, requesting her account details and proof of her identity and shortly afterward, the money was transferred to her account.
“It was like a miracle. Before long, I got the alert and immediately paid my school fees. If I had failed to pay, I would not have been allowed to sit for the exams. It would have been a terrible setback,” she said.
Omobomi stressed that the senator’s gesture went beyond money, saying it had restored her faith in leadership.
She added: “Senator Adegbonmire has changed my perception of politicians. He has shown that leaders can be compassionate and that they can stand by people like me who often feel forgotten. May God continue to elevate him.”
Omobomi’s story underlines the challenges many students in Nigeria face in financing their education, particularly those living with disabilities.
Her case, however, also highlights how small acts of compassion from leaders can have life-changing impact on individuals.
As she prepares for her upcoming examinations, Omobomi said she is motivated more than ever to continue striving toward her dream of earning a university degree.
“This is more than school fees to me. It is encouragement to keep going despite my challenges,” she stated.
