Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has rejected criticism surrounding her brief interaction with Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, describing the public reactions as a “needless controversy.”
In a statement posted on her Facebook page on Tuesday, Mrs Tinubu said minor issues were often exaggerated by critics seeking distractions. She wrote that those entrusted with leadership “understand their duties and how to steer the affairs of society,” adding that it was usually “followers and critics who scrutinise every step, amplify minor missteps, and turn them into needless controversy.” She concluded with the Yoruba phrase, “Ọṣun lè tèǹtẹ̀ – Osun is ahead.”
Her remarks follow the circulation of a video recorded at the 10th coronation anniversary of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi. The footage shows Governor Adeleke briefly breaking into song during his speech before pausing. Mrs Tinubu then approached him at the podium, gestured, and whispered something to him. The moment quickly spread online, drawing widespread commentary.
The First Lady’s statement is her first public response since the clip went viral.
The incident has sharply divided opinion. Akintunde Bello, Senior Special Assistant to Governor Adeleke on the Bureau of Social Services, argued that the First Lady should be cautioned, describing her gesture toward an elected governor as inappropriate.
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Prominent politician and African Democratic Congress chieftain, Dele Momodu, also criticised the episode, accusing Mrs Tinubu of “openly disgracing” the governor before a global audience.
However, others have defended the First Lady. Dayo Fashola, an aide to former Osun State Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, described the exchange as light-hearted and overblown by online reactions. Similarly, Facebook user Oyetunji Ayoade praised Mrs Tinubu for personally informing the governor, calling it an act of respect toward the people of Osun.
Neither Governor Adeleke nor the Presidency has issued additional comments as discussion about the incident continues to dominate social media.
