Delta Health Commissioner Intervenes In Nursing Student Query Controversy

Delta State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, has addressed the controversy surrounding a nursing student who was reportedly disciplined for refusing to refer to Nigeria’s First Lady, Remi Tinubu, as “our mummy” during her visit to the institution.

The issue gained public attention following reports that the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences, Agbor, had issued a query to the student for sharing a video online.

The footage allegedly captured students declining to use the term “mummy” when addressing the First Lady. As the video spread, the student responsible for posting it, identified as Nurse Osato Edobor, was singled out and formally reprimanded by the school administration.

In a query letter dated March 27, 2025, the institution accused Edobor of breaching school policies by recording and distributing an “unauthorized” response to a song performed during the First Lady’s arrival. The letter referenced the Student Handbook to justify disciplinary measures and demanded a written explanation within 24 hours.

Reacting swiftly, Dr. Onojaeme directed the school’s provost to rescind the query and ensure no student faced repercussions over the incident.

Providing an update on the matter, the commissioner stated:

“Regarding the query issued to the nursing student, I have instructed the provost to withdraw the letter. We do not want to victimize any student. Additionally, we have reached out to the student in question, and she has confirmed that the query has been withdrawn.”

In response to his statement, users on social media quickly took to the comments to share their views on the matter.

See some reactions below:

@Odimmadu2: “Nigerian still don’t no the power in their collective voice when the speak out and demand for accountability,make dey play wen we are ready even Tinubu go run leave Abuja.”

@LordTyrion4: “This is commendable. Well done honourable commissioner for stopping what shouldn’t have happened in the first place. Thank you social media “noise makers” for standing up for what is right.”

@OluwafemiO78855: “The society is shifting in ways that can be concerning. There’s a growing emphasis on individual rights, which is important, but sometimes it comes at the cost of discipline, respect, and communal values. No more respect for constituted authorities.”

@wabiodun9: “Good.. everyday we have to fight for our rights, defend democracy from Tinubu family and his minions from south west.. when we are not in North Korea. Tori olohun.”

@Boss_Fbillion: “This is another proof of the power of a COLLECTIVE VOICE!! If we had ONE VOICE, Nigeria would have been a better country!”

@Odeh_JuniorOdeh: “Why there is need to have a clear line between politics and governance.”

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