Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has addressed the growing public controversy surrounding her conduct during the 10th-anniversary celebration of the Ooni of Ife, Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi. The event, where she was also conferred the title Yeye Asiwaju Gbgbogbo Ile Oodua, saw a public confrontation involving Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke.
The controversy stems from an incident where the First Lady reportedly told Governor Adeleke to stop singing or she would switch off his microphone. She also allegedly instructed the Governor that he had “five minutes to conclude” his remarks as he paid tribute to the Ooni and his chieftaincy title.
In response to the widespread criticism, Mrs. Tinubu posted a statement on Facebook, asserting that her actions were being unduly magnified.
“Those entrusted with leadership understand their duties and how to steer society,” she wrote. She further criticized her detractors, stating, “More often, it is followers and critics who scrutinize every step, amplify minor missteps, and turn them into needless controversy”.
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The First Lady’s actions have been heavily criticized by many Nigerians, who have described the public confrontation as disrespectful and a national disgrace. Users on the platform X (formerly Twitter) expressed outrage, with some observers drawing parallels to past incidents involving former First Lady Patience Jonathan.
As of the time of this report, the Osun State government has not issued an official comment on the incident or the public backlash.