Opinion
Untold Meaning Of Nursing Students’ Song For Remi Tinubu
By Benjamin Abioye

A song meant to lighten the mood at an event has instead set off a nationwide debate, stirring up questions about respect, leadership, and free expression. When students from the School of Midwifery in Delta State were prompted to sing along to a song during an event attended by First Lady Remi Tinubu, their response became the subject of national discussion. The song in question—“Na your mama be this ohhh”—has led to conflicting views on whether the students acted inappropriately or simply exercised free expression.
Some argue that their refusal to acknowledge the First Lady as “mother” was a mark of disrespect. To them, Remi Tinubu, as the wife of the President, is a symbolic mother figure to the nation. In many cultures, especially in Africa, leadership extends beyond governance to parental responsibility, making it natural for people to refer to a leader’s wife as the “mother of the nation.” From this perspective, rejecting that notion could be seen as dismissive or even rude.
Others disagree, questioning the legitimacy of such an expectation. To them, the First Lady is simply the President’s spouse, holding no official title or constitutional role as a mother to the citizens. If an individual does not consider her as such, should that be seen as an offense? These voices argue that respect is personal and should not be forced upon anyone.
Beyond the question of respect, another angle suggests that the students may have been making a subtle political statement. Some believe that their reaction was not necessarily about Remi Tinubu herself, but rather a reflection of the country’s economic struggles. They argue that in better times, acceptance and admiration come naturally—leaders do not have to ask for respect; they earn it. Could this have been a quiet protest against hardship, a way of expressing dissatisfaction without outright confrontation?
Then comes the critical question—should the students face consequences for their actions? If they were indeed expressing their frustrations in a peaceful manner, does that justify punishment? On the other hand, if it was an act of defiance, does it set a precedent for disrespect toward authority?
The debate remains open, and opinions will continue to be divided. At its core, this situation highlights broader conversations about leadership, respect, and the voice of the people. Should respect be automatic, or should it be earned? And if a group of students chose not to participate in a song, should that be taken as an act of defiance or a message that deserves to be heard?
Ultimately, the nation must decide what this moment truly represents.
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