The Delta State Government has directed the Provost of the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences to revoke a disciplinary query issued to Osato Edobor, a student of the institution. Edobor had posted a video online capturing moments from the visit of Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, to the state, which appeared to highlight an embarrassing moment for her.
Following the video, the college administration accused Edobor of misconduct and disrespecting Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, issuing her a formal query. However, the state government intervened, instructing that the disciplinary action be rescinded.
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Speaking in a brief video statement, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, emphasized that the government had no intention of victimizing any student. He confirmed that the query had been officially withdrawn and reassured the public that calm had been restored.
“Regarding the query issued to the nursing student in Agbor, I have directed the provost to withdraw it. We are not out to victimize any student,” Onojaeme stated. “I have also personally reached out to the student, and she has confirmed to me that the letter was withdrawn last night.”
The Delta State Government, in an official statement shared on its X handle, reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rights of students in health sciences and related fields. The statement emphasized the government’s dedication to fostering an environment conducive to academic excellence.
Reports had earlier emerged that Edobor was pressured to record a video thanking the governor for his intervention after receiving the query. The letter, signed by the Provost, Mrs. Evbodaghe Rita Ogonne, accused Edobor of engaging in inappropriate behavior by recording and posting a video that allegedly violated institutional standards.
The provost cited the student handbook, which outlines disciplinary measures for certain infractions, labeling Edobor’s actions as “malicious” and contrary to expected student conduct during official events. The letter demanded that Edobor provide a written explanation within 24 hours, warning of possible disciplinary consequences for non-compliance.
The controversy stemmed from a viral video in which a group of nursing students appeared to reject the First Lady’s designation as their “mother” during her visit. When the event’s MC referred to Tinubu as “our mother,” the students responded, “Na your mama be this” (meaning “She is your mother”), signaling their refusal to accept the title.
The incident has been linked to growing frustration among Nigerians over economic difficulties under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. In response to the backlash, the college provost defended the disciplinary action, arguing that Edobor had brought embarrassment to the institution and violated the nursing dress code while in uniform.
