Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has dismissed the public backlash trailing her interaction with Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, at the Ooni of Ife’s coronation anniversary, describing the reactions as a “needless controversy.”
In a Facebook statement on Tuesday, she argued that critics often magnify trivial issues, writing, “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 dispute began after a viral video showed Mrs Tinubu approaching and whispering to Governor Adeleke during his speech, drawing widespread criticism. Some political figures, including Akintunde Bello and Dele Momodu, condemned her action, calling it inappropriate and embarrassing, while others defended the exchange as harmless.
Supporters like Dayo Fashola insisted the moment was light-hearted, even as neither Governor Adeleke nor the Presidency has issued further comment.