First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has dismissed public criticism of her relationship with Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, calling the remarks “needless controversy.”
Tinubu stated on her Facebook page on Tuesday that critics frequently amplify minor issues and create diversions around leadership.
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 scrutinize every step, amplify minor missteps, and turn them into needless controversy. Ọṣun lè tèǹtẹ̀ —Osun is ahead.
The remarks came after a video from the 10th coronation anniversary of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, featuring Adeleke stopping briefly into a brief song while delivering his speech.
Tinubu approached the podium, motioned to him, and whispered —a fleeting moment that swiftly went viral and elicited strong responses online.
Akintunde Bello, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on the Bureau of Social Services, advised the First Lady to exercise caution, saying that her gesture toward an elected governor was unacceptable.
Similarly, African Democratic Congress leader Dele Momodu condemned the incident, calling it bullying and claiming that Tinubu had “openly disgraced and embarrassed Adeleke before a global audience.”
Some believe Tinubu’s actions were justifiable.
Dayo Fashola, an aide to former Osun State Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, stated on her verified Facebook page that the contact between the two was amusing.
“What transpired between Oluremi Tinubu and Adeleke was light‑hearted and isn’t as serious as people are making it seem,” Fashola wrote.
