First Lady Oluremi Tinubu endured an uncomfortable moment during her visit to a nursing school in Delta State, where students declined to acknowledge her as “their mother” in a call-and-response chant.
The incident occurred while she was distributing 10,000 medical kits to midwives as part of her Renewed Hope Initiative. An MC attempted to lead a welcoming chant, calling out, “Na our mama be this o,” expecting the students to echo the sentiment. Instead, they repeatedly retorted, *Na your mama,” rejecting the title.
A video of the exchange went viral, but the student who originally posted it reportedly faced harassment, forcing her to delete the footage and deactivate her TikTok account. She also alleged receiving threats.
The episode has ignited fierce debate online. While some Nigerians criticised the students’ response as discourteous, others argued that the reaction was justified due to public dissatisfaction with her husband’s administration. Meanwhile, some political commentators have urged the Federal Government to impose sanctions on the school.
The visit took place amid growing discontent with the Tinubu government, exemplified by the ongoing 30-day Rant Challenge, where Nigerians share their struggles under current economic conditions.
Background
As part of her Renewed Hope Initiative, Mrs Remi Tinubu toured Delta State, where Governor Sheriff Oborevwori praised her efforts to transform the healthcare sector. During the event, professional kits were distributed to the wives of South-South governors, who serve as state coordinators for the initiative.
Earlier, the First Lady had visited the Delta State Traditional Rulers’ Council, where monarchs were convening their monthly meeting under the leadership of the Orodje of Okpe, retired Major General Felix Mujak Peruo.