The recent article authored by Dr Festus Adedayo and published in the Sunday Tribune of October 5, 2025, under the headline “Iyaloja-General at Oba of Benin’s Palace”, is a regrettable descent into sensationalism and deliberate misrepresentation. While the writer cloaks his narrative under the pretext of moral and political critique, his piece, in truth, reads as an exercise in bias, conjecture, and personal disdain toward the family of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—particularly his son, Mr Seyi Tinubu, and daughter, Chief (Mrs.) Folashade Tinubu-Ojo.
Dr Adedayo’s article, couched in flamboyant language and biblical analogies, purports to expose what he calls “personal rule” within the presidency. Yet, upon close scrutiny, it offers no verifiable facts, no credible citations, and no substantiated evidence—only sweeping generalisations and unsubstantiated insinuations. The piece serves as a poignant reminder of how public commentary can sometimes devolve into character assassination.
- Misrepresentation of Seyi Tinubu’s Character and Role
The attempt to portray Mr Seyi Tinubu as a symbol of irresponsibility and “a pain in the neck” to his father is not only unfair but also grossly inaccurate. Seyi Tinubu has distinguished himself over the years as a young entrepreneur, philanthropist, and advocate for youth empowerment. Through the Noella Foundation and other initiatives, he has supported education, innovation, and social welfare projects that have benefited numerous Nigerians.
It is important to note that Seyi Tinubu holds no public office and receives no remuneration from the Nigerian government. His humanitarian activities and business engagements predate his father’s presidency. To allege, without evidence, that he “nominated ministers” or “misuses security convoys” is to indulge in rumour-mongering, not journalism. In every democracy, the children of leaders often engage in civic and philanthropic work; to vilify Seyi Tinubu for doing the same reflects prejudice rather than principle.
- Chief (Mrs.) Folashade Tinubu-Ojo and the Iyaloja-General Misconception
Equally distorted is the attempt to discredit Chief (Mrs.) Folashade Tinubu-Ojo’s legitimate role as Iyaloja-General. Long before her father assumed office as President, Chief Tinubu-Ojo had established herself as a respected leader within the market community, succeeding her late grandmother, Alhaja Abibat Mogaji, in a lineage of tested leadership and advocacy for traders’ welfare.
Her nationwide consultations and engagements as Iyaloja-General of Nigeria are aimed at strengthening market unions, improving coordination, and advancing the interests of women traders. Her courtesy visit to the revered Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, was undertaken in this spirit of dialogue and mutual respect. The palace’s reaffirmation of Edo’s cultural traditions was acknowledged respectfully by her delegation. To twist that event into a narrative of “hubris” or “imposition” is an act of deliberate distortion.
- The Flawed Analogy of Biblical Parables
Dr Adedayo’s comparison of the Tinubu family to the biblical story of Eli and his sons is both misplaced and intellectually dishonest. Nigeria is a constitutional democracy, not a theocracy or priestly dynasty. Adult children of a president are private citizens with the right to pursue their professions, civic initiatives, and community service. To invoke divine retribution for unproven claims is neither moral reasoning nor sound argumentation—it is rhetorical manipulation.
- On the Question of Personal Rule
It is equally misleading to accuse President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of “personal rule.” Nigeria’s democratic institutions remain functional, independent, and constitutionally empowered. Neither Seyi Tinubu nor Chief Folashade Tinubu-Ojo occupies any official government position or wields executive authority. Their personal initiatives do not constitute state capture or nepotism. It is a mark of responsible citizenship when individuals, irrespective of their family background, use their resources and influence for the public good.
- Upholding the Ethics of Responsible Journalism
Criticism, when grounded in truth, serves democracy. But when it degenerates into character vilification, it undermines public discourse. Responsible journalism demands balance, evidence, and integrity—not innuendoes, unverified gossip, or the weaponisation of familial identity. Families of public officials, though in the public eye, are not fair game for reckless attacks.
Conclusion
Dr Adedayo’s article fails the essential tests of factual accuracy, fairness, and intellectual honesty. It is neither investigative journalism nor objective commentary—it is a personal opinion dressed in moral theatrics. Both Seyi Tinubu and Chief (Mrs.) Folashade Tinubu-Ojo have made visible, positive contributions to society through enterprise, empowerment, and service. Their identities as the President’s children do not disqualify them from civic engagement or public goodwill.
Public debate thrives on truth, not on bitterness or envy masquerading as moral concern. Nigeria deserves a press that enlightens, not one that maligns.
- Akeem Temitope Akilo
Itun-Olugbala, Ishowe
2024 APC Chairmanship Aspirant, Ijebu North East Local Government Area
akiloakeem@gmail.com