Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has dismissed public criticism over her brief exchange with Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke at the 10th coronation anniversary of the Ooni of Ife, describing the uproar as a “needless controversy.”
In a statement posted on Facebook on Tuesday, Mrs Tinubu said minor issues are often exaggerated, creating distractions around governance.
“Those entrusted with leadership understand their duties and how to steer the affairs of society,” she wrote.
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She wrote: “Those entrusted with leadership understand their duties and how to steer the affairs of society.
“More often, it is the followers and critics who scrutinise every step, amplify minor missteps, and turn them into needless controversy. Ọṣun lè tèǹtẹ̀ – Osun is ahead.”
Her reaction followed the circulation of a viral video showing her interrupting Adeleke at an event marking the 10th coronation anniversary of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, where she (the first lady) was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Yeye-Asiwaju of Ile Oodua.
“I’m giving you five minutes to finish your speech. The music is enough,” she told Adeleke who was singing just before his speech.
Adeleke, however, continued singing. Mrs Tinubu returned to him and said: “I will turn off the microphone. Stop the music.”
The clip drew widespread debate online.
Akintunde Bello, Senior Special Assistant to Adeleke on the Bureau of Social Services, argued that the first lady’s conduct toward an elected governor was inappropriate and stated that she should be cautioned.
