“Don’t Exaggerate My Minor Missteps” – Remi Tinubu Responds to Backlash Over Incident with Adeleke

Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has spoken out regarding the uproar over her behavior during the 10th coronation anniversary of the Ooni of Ife, Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, where she received the title Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodua.

During the celebration, she reportedly requested Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke to stop singing, threatening to cut off his microphone if he didn’t comply. She also gave him “five minutes to conclude” his remarks as he honored the Ooni and acknowledged her chieftaincy title.

In response to the backlash, Tinubu took to Facebook to claim that people often magnify small errors. She asserted, “Leaders know their responsibilities and how to guide society. It’s usually the critics and followers who scrutinize every action, exaggerate minor faults, and create unnecessary controversies.” She included a photo of herself with the governor in her post.

Her actions have drawn significant criticism from many Nigerians, who have labeled her remarks as disrespectful and a shame for the nation. Users on X expressed their outrage, with some drawing parallels to past incidents involving former First Lady Patience Jonathan. One commentator described her conduct as authoritarian, cautioning that a second term for her could have serious implications. There were also critiques of her public attempts to interrupt and intimidate the governor, with suggestions that he had legal grounds to respond to her behavior.

As of now, the Osun State government has yet to release any statements regarding the incident or the ensuing public outcry.