Governors’ Wives In Political Polygamy: A Battle For The First Lady Title...CONTINUE READING
In Nigeria, the emergence of the First Lady’s office within state governments, often created by governors, has sparked a keen competition among certain governors with multiple wives. This rivalry has spilled into the public domain, highlighting the intricate dynamics at play.
In Osun State, the wives of Governor Ademola Adeleke, Titilola and Ngozi, found themselves in a subtle power struggle, each vying for recognition as the state’s First Lady. Titilola, the governor’s reputed first wife, holds the esteemed traditional title of Yeye Soludero of Ila Orangun in Osun State and has received notable awards. On the other hand, Ngozi, hailing from Dimorji Obokwe Mbieri in Imo State, boasts accolades such as being named the Face of Adire by former President Olusegun Obasanjo and receiving the United Nations Peace Ambassador award.
The competition reached a crescendo when two sets of posters, featuring the wives of the governor, surfaced on social media welcoming Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, to the state. Each poster claimed the title of First Lady for the respective wife, sparking confusion among netizens.
Social media reactions varied, with some questioning the legitimacy of having multiple First Ladies and others citing cultural norms regarding the primacy of the first wife. However, some argued that the issue was not unprecedented and did not warrant controversy, especially considering that the governor had not declared any conflict between his wives.
In response to the controversy, Governor Adeleke’s spokesperson clarified that Titilola was the recognized First Lady of Osun State and would host Senator Tinubu’s wife during her visit. He also denounced a fake flyer purportedly from Ngozi’s office, emphasizing that it was aimed at sowing discord.
During the event attended by Mrs. Tinubu and the Ooni of Ife, the governor’s wives were acknowledged as First Ladies, highlighting their role in state affairs.
Investigations revealed that several other state governors with multiple wives faced similar situations, with some wives jointly claiming the title of First Lady. However, the constitutional basis for the office remains debatable, with its recognition stemming primarily from tradition rather than legal mandate.
In conclusion, while the role of the First Lady holds significance in Nigerian state politics, its legitimacy and authority are subject to interpretation, reflecting the evolving socio-cultural landscape of the country.