Oyetola’s Former Aide Clarifies: Adeleke-Oluremi Tinubu Exchange Not Intended to Disparage Governor

Dayo Fashola, an assistant to former Osun State governor Adegboyega Oyetola, has defended First Lady Oluremi Tinubu in the widespread controversy surrounding Governor Ademola Adeleke during the Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi’s coronation anniversary in Ile-Ife.

Fashola claims that Tinubu and Adeleke’s conversation was never meant to be derogatory but rather to make sure the celebration closed on schedule so guests could safely return home.

Speaking on her verified Facebook page, Fashola pointed out that many of the event’s dignitaries—including more than 29 wives of different state governors—had to return, many of them from as far north as the North.

She said that Tinubu’s demand for promptness was reasonable and essential given the limited time and deteriorating visibility in the evening.

According to Fashola, the First Lady’s seeming irritation was caused by worries over the visitors’ safety and orderly departure.

“The exchange between Governor Adeleke and Her Excellency, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, CON was not meant to disparage the Governor but to ensure a judicious use of time,” the author said.

Concern at the early departure of the more than 29 wives of different state governors who were present, along with other dignitaries, who were all waiting for the event to conclude so they could be transported back to their respective states, was the apparent source of Her Excellency’s distress. Keep in mind that a large portion of the attendees were from the far north.

She had to warn the Governor to be time-conscious once more because time was running out and visibility was getting worse as night fell. It wasn’t as serious as people are making it out to be; it was lighthearted.

Since many of her esteemed visitors had to get back to their destinations on time, even Her Excellency yearned for the indulgence of all of them to forego formality while giving her own address.

“Remember that nighttime helicopter visibility is almost nonexistent. Once again, congratulations to our Yeye Asiwaju of the entire Oodua land and territories.”