Remi Tinubu posts cryptic message after backlash over impolite gesture toward Osun governor

 

Remi Tinubu posts cryptic message after backlash over impolite gesture toward Osun governor

Remi Tinubu, Nigeria's First Lady, has responded to the backlash over her interaction with Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke at the Ooni of Ife's 10th coronation anniversary. In a Facebook post, she described the widespread criticism as "needless controversy" and emphasized that leaders should not be scrutinized for every step they take. 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."

The Incident:

Remi Tinubu walked up to Governor Adeleke while he was singing before delivering his speech and asked him to stop, saying "I'm giving you five minutes to finish your speech. The music is enough." When Adeleke continued singing, she threatened to turn off the microphone, sparking a heated debate online.¹ ²

Reactions:

- Many Nigerians have condemned Remi Tinubu's actions, describing them as "disrespectful" and "a national disgrace".

- Some have defended the First Lady, saying her actions were justified and that the governor should focus on governance rather than entertainment.

- The APC has come out in support of Remi Tinubu, stating that her intervention was "neither malicious, demeaning, nor condescending" but rather a "patriotic nudge" to preserve the dignity of the governor's office.³ ⁴

Aftermath:

Remi Tinubu has congratulated Titilola Adeleke, the Osun State governor's wife, on her 60th birthday, despite the backlash over the incident.

Mrs Tinubu’s crassness meets Adeleke’s indiscipline

The interaction between Remi Tinubu and Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has sparked controversy, with many criticizing the First Lady's actions as "crass" and "disrespectful." Some have also pointed out that the governor's decision to continue singing despite the First Lady's request to stop was "indiscipline" and "insensitive" to the occasion.

Different Perspectives:

- Some Nigerians have condemned Remi Tinubu's actions, saying she overstepped her boundaries and disrespected the governor.

- Others have defended the First Lady, arguing that she was trying to keep the program on schedule and ensure the governor didn't overshadow the Ooni's event.

- Some have also criticized Governor Adeleke for not being more diplomatic and respectful in his response to Remi Tinubu's request [1][2].

Cultural Significance:

- The incident has highlighted the importance of protocol and respect for authority in Nigerian culture.

- It has also raised questions about the role of the First Lady and the limits of her influence in public events.

Public Reaction:

- The incident has generated significant attention on social media, with many Nigerians weighing in on the controversy.

- Some have called for Remi Tinubu to apologize to Governor Adeleke and the people of Osun State, while others have defended her actions as a necessary intervention

‘I’ll keep dancing; it doesn’t affect my job as governor’ – Adeleke

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has stated that he won't stop dancing, despite criticism from Nigerians over his interaction with First Lady Remi Tinubu at the Ooni of Ife's 10th coronation anniversary. Adeleke emphasized that dancing is his way of expressing joy and worship, and it doesn't affect his work as a governor.

Key Points:

- Adeleke's Response: "I'll keep dancing because I love to dance, I love to praise my God. That doesn't change anything. Everybody has their way of relaxing or hobby. My hobby is to dance and praise my God. That does not affect my work."

- Criticism and Reaction: The incident sparked controversy, with many criticizing Remi Tinubu's actions as disrespectful. However, some Nigerians have defended the First Lady, saying she was trying to keep the event on schedule.

- Adeleke's Popularity: Adeleke is known for his dancing skills, earning him the nickname "Dancing Senator" during his time in the Senate.

- Remi Tinubu's Response: The First Lady later dismissed the backlash, stating that she was simply trying to keep the event orderly and asking people not to amplify minor missteps.¹ ²

Public Opinion:

- Some Nigerians have condemned Remi Tinubu's actions, describing them as "disrespectful" and "a national disgrace".

- Others have defended the First Lady, saying she was right to intervene and keep the event on track.

- Many have called for Remi Tinubu to apologize to Governor Adeleke and the people of Osun State

First Lady: President Working Tirelessly to Keep Nigeria Safe

The First Lady's statement highlights President Bola Tinubu's relentless efforts to ensure Nigeria's safety and security. Here are some key initiatives undertaken by the President¹ ² ³:

- Arming Forest Guards: President Tinubu has authorized arming forest guards to tackle banditry, kidnapping, and illegal mining, particularly in rural areas. This move aims to strengthen surveillance and response capabilities in high-risk zones.

- Withdrawal of Police from VIPs: The President has directed the withdrawal of police officers from VIPs to deploy them to areas with higher security needs. This move is part of a broader strategy to combat insecurity and terrorism.

- Recruitment of Police Officers: President Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 20,000 additional police officers to bolster the country's security forces.

- Regional Security Cooperation: Nigeria, under President Tinubu's leadership, has also demonstrated commitment to regional security. For instance, the country intervened in Benin Republic to quell an attempted coup, showcasing its dedication to stability in the West African region.

- Security Infrastructure and Welfare: The government has invested over N100 billion in supporting the Nigerian Army, Civilian JTF, Police, and other security agencies. There's also been noticeable improvement in the welfare of security personnel, including doubled salaries for soldiers.

These initiatives underscore President Tinubu's commitment to enhancing national security and addressing the country's complex security challenges.