Oluremi Tinubu’s counsel to Adeleke was patriotic, not an attack- Lagos APC

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has defended First Lady of the Federal Republic, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, over her recent remarks advising Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, to focus more on governance than frequent public performances.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Lagos APC Spokesman, Seye Oladejo, the party described the First Lady’s comments as well-intentioned, patriotic and rooted in statesmanship, dismissing criticisms that portrayed them as demeaning or malicious.

Oladejo explained that Mrs. Tinubu’s counsel, delivered during a culturally significant event hosted by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, was a timely reminder of the dignity of public office and the responsibilities attached to leadership. According to him, the First Lady merely underscored the need for discipline, focus and restraint in governance.

The Lagos APC stressed that governance should not be reduced to entertainment, noting that public office demands seriousness, sound judgement and effective time management. Oladejo argued that excessive theatrics at public events could distract from policy execution and service delivery, describing the prudent use of time as a key indicator of good leadership.

“At a time when Osun State faces pressing economic, social and infrastructural challenges, the people deserve leadership defined by measurable achievements in education, healthcare, security, youth employment and inclusive development,” the statement read.

Oladejo insisted that Mrs. Tinubu’s advice should not be misconstrued as an attack, but rather seen as a patriotic call to preserve the sanctity of the gubernatorial mandate and uphold the dignity of the governor’s office.

He also noted that public perception of a state is shaped by the conduct of its leaders, warning that investors, development partners and the wider public pay close attention to how leadership is projected.

With the next Osun State governorship election approaching, the Lagos APC said voters would ultimately be guided by tangible achievements and impact on their lives rather than public displays or entertainment.

The party urged Governor Adeleke to reflect on the advice, recalibrate his public conduct and devote greater energy to governance, stressing that leadership credibility is sustained by performance, not applause.