Veteran journalist and publisher Dele Momodu has attributed the public friction between Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, to underlying political tension, specifically Adeleke’s refusal to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Momodu, speaking in an interview with the Nigerian Tribune, stated that the APC operates with an “entitlement syndrome,” believing every governor should align with the party.
Momodu suggested that the First Lady’s displeasure, which played out in a viral video from the 10th coronation anniversary of the Ooni of Ife, was deeply rooted in the Governor’s political affiliation.
He said: “However, I know the reason she is angry, because she used to enjoy his singing and music when they used to dance together in Osogbo and all that. I have video evidence of that. She is angry because the governor refused to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).”
Momodu claimed the APC’s goal is to consolidate power by having all governors join its fold.
“The only thing that will give them joy and comfort is for every governor in Nigeria… should join APC. Then Tinubu can become an emperor in word and indeed. That is what they seek to do… Anybody who does not join them is considered an enemy,” he said.
Momodu criticized the public manner in which Governor Adeleke was interrupted mid-speech during the Ooni of Ife’s coronation ceremony.
He argued that the incident, which saw Mrs. Tinubu approach the podium, gesture, and whisper to Adeleke, was avoidable and embarrassing for a sitting governor in his own state.
Momodu stressed that if there was a need to hasten proceedings, more discreet channels should have been used instead of a direct, public intrusion.
He added that the controversy was fueled by the subsequent attempts to manage public perception, noting that a simple acknowledgement of error from the outset would have quickly defused the situation.
