The Delta State College of Nursing Sciences in Agbor has withdrawn a query issued to student nurse Osato Edobor after a video she posted went viral, prompting significant public reaction. The incident occurred during First Lady Oluremi Tinubu's visit to the Dome Event Center in Asaba on March 25, 2025, for the Renewed Hope Initiative Health Programme, which aimed to distribute 10,000 professional kits to midwives in Nigeria's South-South zone.
In the video, students were seen altering a welcome song traditionally used to greet dignitaries. Instead of the customary lyrics, they chanted, "Na your mama," implying that the First Lady was not their mother. Edobor shared this footage on her TikTok account, leading the college administration to issue her a query on March 27, 2025. The query accused her of engaging in a "malicious act" by recording and posting an unofficial response during the First Lady's arrival, which was deemed inappropriate and in violation of the institution's standards as outlined in the Student Handbook.
The disciplinary action sparked widespread public outcry, with many criticizing the college's response as heavy-handed and an infringement on students' freedom of expression. In reaction to the growing controversy, Delta State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, intervened by directing the immediate withdrawal of the query. He emphasized that the state government does not intend to victimize any student and aims to foster a conducive learning environment that balances discipline with free expression.
First Lady Oluremi Tinubu also addressed the incident, downplaying the students' actions as a "lighthearted and jovial" expression. She urged the college management to handle the matter with understanding and fairness, ensuring that students feel safe to express themselves while maintaining decorum.
Following these interventions, the college rescinded the query issued to Edobor. Dr. Onojaeme confirmed that he had personally reached out to the student, who acknowledged the withdrawal of the disciplinary action.
This incident highlights the delicate balance educational institutions must maintain between upholding discipline and respecting students' rights to free expression. The prompt response from both state authorities and the First Lady underscores the importance of addressing such matters with empathy and a commitment to fostering an environment conducive to learning and personal development.