Remi Tinubu faces backlash for stopping Adeleke from singing.
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, is facing criticism after she interrupted Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke when he began singing during his speech at the Ooni of Ife’s 10th coronation anniversary.
A viral video from Sunday’s ceremony shows Adeleke stepping up to the podium to honour the Ooni, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and congratulate Mrs Tinubu on her new title, Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodua. Instead of starting his speech immediately, the governor—known for his energetic and musical style—broke into a short chant, drawing laughter from some guests.
Moments later, the First Lady, who had just received her chieftaincy title, approached him, gestured politely, and whispered for him to continue with his remarks.
The incident has since stirred mixed reactions online.
Akintunde Bello, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on the Bureau of Social Services, criticised Mrs Tinubu and said she should be cautioned.
Dele Momodu, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, also condemned the act on Instagram, calling it “bullying” and saying she embarrassed the Osun governor before a global audience. He argued that as an unelected official, the First Lady overstepped her role.
An X user, Hon. Rilwan, similarly accused her of undermining the state government in the presence of dignitaries.
However, others defended her.
Dayo Fashola, an aide to former Osun Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, said the exchange was lighthearted and not as serious as portrayed, noting that the First Lady herself had earlier skipped some protocols due to tight schedules and visibility concerns for helicopter travel at night.
A Facebook user, Oyetunji Ayoade, also supported Mrs Tinubu’s action, saying she showed respect by personally walking up to the governor to address the situation.
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