A recent controversy in Delta State has ignited nationwide discussions on student expression, institutional discipline, and respect for public figures. Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has ordered the immediate withdrawal of a disciplinary query issued to Osato Edobor, a nursing student at Delta State College of Nursing Sciences, Agbor. The query was issued after a viral video showed Edobor and fellow students singing a song implying that First Lady Oluremi Tinubu is not their mother.
The incident has sparked significant public debate, with critics condemning what they see as institutional overreach while others argue that the students’ actions were inappropriate.
Background of the Incident
On March 25, 2025, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu visited the Dome Event Center in Asaba, Delta State, for the Renewed Hope Initiative Health Programme. During this event, 10,000 professional kits (including crocs and scrubs) were distributed to midwives in Nigeria’s South-South geopolitical zone.
As part of the welcoming ceremony, nursing students at the event sang a traditional song. However, some students altered the lyrics, suggesting that the First Lady was not their mother. This moment was recorded and posted on social media platforms like TikTok by student nurse Osato Edobor.
“The MC raised the song” Na our mama be this we nor get another one…they responded Na your mama be this oh ” instead of Na our mama be this”
By implication, the nursing students are saying that the First Lady is not their Mother.
The video quickly went viral, gaining thousands of views and sparking widespread discussions online. While some Nigerians saw the students’ actions as harmless, others viewed them as disrespectful.
Institutional Response and Issuance of Query
Following the video’s spread, Mrs. Evbodaghe Rita Ogonne, the Provost of the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences, Agbor, issued a formal query letter to Osato Edobor on March 27, 2025.
The query accused Edobor of engaging in an “unauthorised online publication” that violated the school’s disciplinary code. It referenced the student handbook’s Section 8, Page 21, which outlines punishments for certain offenses. The Provost demanded that Edobor submit a written explanation in triplicate within 24 hours, justifying why disciplinary action should not be taken against her.
Public Reactions and Social Media Outcry
The incident triggered a wave of reactions on social media, particularly on Twitter (X), with many criticizing the school’s response and calling for Edobor’s protection.
Popular Nigerian activist and comedian Mr. Macaroni (Adebowale Adedayo) condemned the disciplinary action, tweeting:
“Delta State College of Nursing Sciences is threatening a student with disciplinary action because of a song??? The students say dem sabi their mama!! Students wey their mama dey work hard to give them better life.. Una wan come expel them because them refuse to deny their mama? Na by force???”
Several other social media users echoed his concerns, arguing that the school’s decision was too extreme.
- @michael_ogwo tweeted:
“One thing I know about druggies and power, they hate challenge… we are slowly getting into dictatorship. - @AdeseyePaint_56 wrote:
“Someone who can’t respect another person’s mother shows how they treat their biological mothers. Hate won’t get y’all far. Remi Tinubu is our mother, including all mothers in the world.” - @majorogah had a different view:
“The First Lady is a mother to all Nigerians. This shameless conduct of those students is highly disrespectful. Obviously, they have proven they lack home training and respect for elders. Their mothers can never be like Senator Oluremi Tinubu.”
Governor’s Intervention and Withdrawal of Query
Following the public backlash, the Delta State Government swiftly intervened. Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, issued a statement confirming that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had ordered the withdrawal of the query.
Dr. Onojaeme stated:
“On the trending letter of query issued to the student of the School of Nursing, Agbor, I’ve instructed the provost to withdraw the letter. We don’t want to victimise any of the students.”
He further assured the public that he had personally contacted Osato Edobor to confirm the withdrawal and urged Nigerians to disregard any misinformation about the situation.
First Lady Oluremi Tinubu’s Response
Amid the controversy, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu addressed the issue through her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Busola Kukoyi. Her statement emphasized the need for understanding and fairness, especially when dealing with students.
“We trust that the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences will handle this matter with understanding and fairness, ensuring that students continue to thrive in an environment that balances discipline with free expression.”
Her calm and diplomatic response was viewed positively by many Nigerians, as it suggested that she did not see the students’ actions as a serious offense requiring harsh punishment.
Broader Implications and Public Debate
This incident has raised critical questions about freedom of expression within academic institutions. While some argue that students must show respect to national leaders, others believe that disciplinary measures should not be used to silence students’ opinions or expressions.
Key Debates from the Public:
- Should students be disciplined for social media posts?
- Do educational institutions have the right to control how students behave at public events?
- Was the school’s response an overreaction, or was it justified?
Some analysts have suggested that the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences should review its disciplinary policies to ensure that students are not unfairly penalized for harmless social interactions. Others argue that students must be educated on the importance of decorum when attending state functions.
What you should know
The withdrawal of the query issued to Osato Edobor highlights the ongoing tension between institutional authority and student rights in Nigeria. The incident serves as a reminder that while respect for public figures is essential, it is equally important to protect freedom of expression within academic institutions.
As Nigeria continues to navigate these issues, it is crucial for educational authorities to adopt balanced approaches that uphold discipline without infringing on fundamental human rights.
This incident will likely remain a reference point in future debates about student conduct, freedom of speech, and the role of educational institutions in regulating online behavior.
