The Battle for First Lady: Governors' Wives in a Political Tussle

In Nigeria, the office of the First Lady has become a highly coveted title among state governors who have multiple wives. Recently, the wives of Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, Titilola and Ngozi, engaged in a subtle competition for influence, each claiming to be the First Lady of the state. This phenomenon is not unique to Osun State, as several other governors' wives also lay claim to the title.

The Rivalry

Titilola, the governor's first wife, proudly bears the traditional title of Yeye Soludero of Ila Orangun in Osun State, while Ngozi, the second wife, was named the Face of Adire by former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Both wives have been involved in various activities, with Titilola receiving the NET Ambassador award in 2023 and Ngozi receiving the United Nations Peace Ambassador award.

The Controversy

On April 22, 2024, two viral photos of posters bearing the photos of the governor's wives welcoming Nigeria's First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, to the state sparked controversy. The inscription on the poster bearing Ngozi's photo read, "Welcome to the State of Living Spring. Experience the beauty of Osun State's landscape," signed off with her name as First Lady of the state. In a separate poster, Titilola also welcomed Mrs. Tinubu, signing off as First Lady of the state.

Social Media Reactions

Netizens reacted with confusion and amusement, with some praising the First Lady title taken by both women. Others argued that the office of the First Lady should be scrapped when a governor has multiple wives, citing limited state resources.

Cultural Significance

In Yoruba culture, the first wife is recognized as the foremost lady of the state, unless the governor designates another individual for the title. This cultural practice is deeply rooted in the social fabric of the Yoruba people and has been upheld for generations.

Governor's Response

Governor Adeleke, through his spokesman, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, disowned the flier purportedly from Ngozi's office, stating that Titilola was the official First Lady and would receive Mrs. Tinubu during her visit. The mastermind behind the fake flier was arrested.

Recognition by First Lady and Ooni

Despite the controversy, President's wife, Oluremi Tinubu, recognized both wives as First Ladies during her visit. The Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, also acknowledged the role played by the governor's wives in driving the government.

Other Governors' Wives

Several state governors, aside from Adeleke, have multiple wives who jointly lay claim to the title of First Lady. Examples include Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, whose two wives oversee separate non-governmental agencies, and Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, whose second wife, Fatima, has been referred to as First Lady on various websites.

Constitutional Backing

The office of the First Lady has no constitutional backing but has been recognized due to continuous usage over the years. According to lawyer Segun Oladejo, there can only be one person occupying the office.

In conclusion, the battle for the title of First Lady among governors' wives highlights the complexities of political polygamy in Nigeria. As the office has no constitutional backing, it remains a symbolic position, and the recognition of multiple First Ladies raises questions about the role and influence of governors' wives in political spheres.

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