The All Progressives Congress (APC) has defended First Lady Oluremi Tinubu following public criticism of her brief intervention during Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke’s speech at her coronation as Yeye Asiwaju Ile Oodua in Ile-Ife on Sunday.
During the event, Mrs Tinubu reportedly gestured to Governor Adeleke and threatened to turn off the microphone as he sang, prompting widespread reactions on social media. Critics claimed the act was inappropriate, but the APC described her actions as measured, patriotic, and well-intentioned.
In a statement released on Wednesday and signed by Lagos APC spokesperson Seye Oladejo, the party reaffirmed its support for the First Lady and emphasised that Governor Adeleke should have conducted himself more appropriately at such a culturally significant occasion.
“The Lagos State chapter of the APC stands firmly behind First Lady Oluremi Tinubu for her timely counsel to Governor Ademola Adeleke, urging him to prioritise governance over public performances. Her intervention, delivered at an event hosted by the revered Ooni of Ife, was neither demeaning nor condescending. It was rooted in statesmanship, motherly wisdom, and a genuine concern for the dignity of public office,” the statement read.
The party stressed that public office demands focus, discipline, and commitment, adding that entertainment should never overshadow leadership responsibilities. “Governance is a sacred mandate entrusted by the people. While culture and self-expression are important, they must not eclipse the essential duties of leadership,” it said.
According to the APC, Governor Adeleke’s frequent public performances have drawn attention away from critical challenges facing Osun State, including economic development, healthcare, education, youth employment, and infrastructure. The party urged that leaders be evaluated based on performance and policy outcomes rather than applause or entertainment.
The statement also warned against framing Mrs Tinubu’s intervention as an attack, describing such claims as “disingenuous and misleading.” The APC characterised her counsel as a patriotic reminder intended to preserve the dignity of the governor’s office and meet the expectations of the people of Osun State.
“History is unkind to leaders who mistake popularity and entertainment for competence and effective governance,” the statement concluded.
