The Delta State College of Nursing Sciences has issued a disciplinary query to one of its student nurses, Osato Edobor, for allegedly recording and posting an “unauthorized” video on social media during the visit of Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, to Delta State. The college’s decision came after a picture of a letter sent to Edobor was shared on social media by Arise News journalist Oseni Rufai on Friday.
According to the letter, dated March 27, 2025, and signed by the provost of the institution, Evbodaghe Rita Ogonne, Edobor was accused of engaging in a “malicious act” by recording herself singing and posting an “unofficial response” to a song during the First Lady’s arrival at the Dome Event Centre in Asaba. The event was part of the Renewed Hope Initiative Health Programme, during which 10,000 professional kits were distributed to midwives in the South-South region.
The college’s letter emphasized that Edobor’s actions violated the institution’s code of conduct, stating, “This is a punishable offence as enshrined in the Student Handbook under standardised disciplinary action for some punishable offences No. 8, Page 21.” The school instructed Edobor to submit a written explanation within 24 hours, justifying why disciplinary action should not be taken against her.
The disciplinary query follows the viral spread of a video in which nursing students at the event appeared to reject the First Lady as their “mother.” During the event, the Master of Ceremony introduced Senator Oluremi Tinubu as “everyone’s mother,” a title commonly used for First Ladies in Nigeria. However, the students responded in unison with the phrase, “Na your mama be this,” meaning “This is your mother,” signaling their refusal to accept the designation.
The video has generated widespread reactions, with many people speculating that the students’ response was driven by growing dissatisfaction over the current economic conditions in Nigeria, particularly under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Rising inflation, food scarcity, and high living costs have fueled frustration, especially among young people in the country.
At the event, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori praised the First Lady’s contributions to the country, particularly her efforts in the health sector under the Renewed Hope Initiative. He noted that significant improvements had been witnessed in the health sector and commended the First Lady for her dedication to improving the lives of ordinary Nigerians.
Additionally, during her visit, the First Lady met with traditional rulers at the Traditional Rulers’ Council Chambers, including the Orodje of Okpe, and retired Major General Felix Mujak Peruo. Despite the viral controversy, the event continued with high-profile interactions aimed at furthering the health and well-being of the South-South geopolitical zone.
