SENATOR OLUREMI TINUBU: THE "SWEET MOTHER" NORM IS A TRADITION OF RESPECT AND ADMIRATION .......A WAKE-UP CALL AS STUDENTS' REACTION HIGHLIGHTS NEED FOR CHANGE

Senator Oluremi Tinubu's recent visit to a school in Delta State took an unexpected turn, sparking concerns about her role as the First Lady of Nigeria. The drama unfolded when the MC welcomed her with a song, "Na Our Mama be dis" ("This is our mother"), but the students, mostly adult nurses-in-training, responded with "Na Your Mama be dis" ("This is your mother"), implying she was the MC's mother, not theirs. 

When the MC mounted the stage, it's usually a norm for some women who are top personalities to be welcomed with a song, "Sweet Mother". This is a sign of respect and admiration for these women. However, some people have expressed the opinion that they can only call someone "Mother" if she is their biological mother or has played a motherly role in their lives. This sentiment was echoed in the unexpected response of the students during Senator Oluremi Tinubu's visit.

This unexpected reaction raises questions about Senator Tinubu's effectiveness in her role as First Lady. Some argue that she hasn't played the expected motherly role, especially considering her statement on Channels Television, 

"God Has Blessed My Family, We Don’t Need Nigeria’s Wealth To Survive".¹ This statement, made on May 28, 2023, has been scrutinized, and many wonder how well she has lived up to her words.

The economic situation in Nigeria has deteriorated since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu took office on May 29, 2023, and the removal of subsidies has made life harder for many Nigerians. It's possible that the students' reaction was a transferred aggression, directed at the President's policies and reflected onto his wife. This incident should prompt Senator Tinubu to reflect on her role and how she can better serve Nigerians. As the First Lady, she has the opportunity to make a positive impact, and it's essential she considers the concerns and needs of the people.

In fact, Senator Tinubu has been involved in various initiatives, such as advocating for free treatment programs for HIV/AIDS patients and providing support for women's health and education. However, more needs to be done to address the current economic challenges and restore confidence in her leadership. Ultimately, this incident serves as a reminder that leaders must be attuned to the needs and concerns of their people. It's time for Senator Tinubu and the Nigerian government to reassess their priorities and work towards creating a more positive impact on the lives of Nigerians.

Responding to the situation, the Delta State government has addressed a viral video circulating online, which appears to show nursing students reacting poorly to Senator Oluremi Tinubu's visit. However, according to Mr. Charles Aniagwu, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, the video doesn't entirely accurately represent what happened at the Event Centre in Asaba.

Aniagwu clarified that while some nurses were disappointed, there were no incidents of hostility or bullying during the visit. In fact, the nurses were initially welcoming and even danced while cheering the First Lady during her speech. A few students did express their feelings by singing a different tune, but this was done in a playful manner.