It's The Critics Who Turn Minor Missteps Into Needless Controversy – Tinubu’s Wife Speaks After Drama With Gov. Adeleke

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has addressed the controversy sparked by her comments to Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke during the 10th coronation anniversary of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi.

The incident, which sparked public debate, occurred on Sunday at the Ile-Ife palace, where Mrs Tinubu was conferred with the traditional title of Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodua.

While Governor Adeleke was giving his goodwill message and offering tributes to the monarch and the First Lady, Mrs Tinubu interrupted the governor with a firm directive.

“Enough with the music, or I’ll switch off the microphone,” she said, instructing the governor to “conclude in five minutes.”

The remark, delivered on stage in full view of dignitaries, was met with mixed reactions online, with critics accusing the First Lady of disrespect.

In her response posted on her verified Facebook page on Tuesday, Mrs Tinubu shared a photo of herself with Governor Adeleke from the event, dismissing the outrage as overblown.

“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,” she wrote.