Don’t Amplify My Minor Missteps – Remi Tinubu Tells Nigerians Amid Controversy With Osun Governor Adeleke

December 10, 2025
News

Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has responded to the growing controversy surrounding her conduct at the 10th-year coronation anniversary of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi.

During the event — where she was also conferred with the title Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodua — Mrs. Tinubu interrupted Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, telling him to stop singing or she would switch off his microphone.

The incident occurred on Sunday as Governor Adeleke mounted the podium to pay tribute to the Ooni and acknowledge the First Lady’s newly bestowed title.
“Enough with the music, or I’ll switch off the microphone,” she said, before directing the governor to conclude his remarks within five minutes.

Following the widespread public criticism that trailed the scene, Mrs. Tinubu addressed the matter via her Facebook page, sharing a photo of herself with Governor Adeleke. She suggested that the public often magnifies minor issues into controversy.

“Those entrusted with leadership understand their duties and how to steer the affairs of society. More often, it is the followers and critics who scrutinize every step, amplify minor missteps, and turn them into needless controversy,” she wrote.

Despite her clarification, Nigerians have continued to react strongly online, with many describing the First Lady’s action as disrespectful and inappropriate.

An X user, Emmanuel Isijola (@Olariches82), compared the incident to past tensions between former First Lady Patience Jonathan and then-Governor Rotimi Amaechi, calling Mrs. Tinubu’s behavior unacceptable.

Another user, @Hollumuyiwa, wrote:
“Wow, that’s disrespectful. I don’t think we’ve seen any First Lady behave so disrespectfully toward a sitting governor in this manner before. This is a national disgrace.”

User @UcheDec_ criticized what he termed a “dictatorial mannerism,” arguing that such behavior raises concerns about leadership if the current administration seeks a second term.

Similarly, @Pakalecimo narrated the incident as a “public humiliation,” adding that Governor Adeleke has the legal right to challenge the First Lady’s actions.

As of the time of filing this report, the Osun State government has not issued any official response to the incident or the resulting public outrage.