President Bola Tinubu sparked conversation at the Presidential Press Corps Dinner on Thursday evening, with a playful comment about his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. This came after she faced scrutiny over her recent remarks about starting an akara business.
As he engaged with the attendees, the President humorously greeted the assembly and referred to the First Lady as “Iya Alakara,” a Yoruba term that translates to “mother of the akara seller.”
“Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, my dear wife, the First Lady, Iya Alakara (mother of akara seller),” President Tinubu quipped, eliciting reactions from the audience.
This jest followed on the heels of Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s contentious remarks regarding an akara business, which have been a hot topic on social media.
Many Nigerians expressed criticism of her statement, suggesting that it seemed out of touch with the country’s economic situation.
Social media users react
The President’s latest reference to the controversy quickly generated fresh reactions online, with many users interpreting it as proof that the Presidency is aware of public discussions on social media.
One user, Paulie, wrote, “So them dey actually follow social media and dem hear our lament and most times do nothing. I thought he is deaf like hime predecessor. God will judge this government.”
Another user, Equity, alleged that the First Lady’s earlier remarks were a calculated distraction from pressing national issues.
“Let me remind you all that this woman intentionally said that thing a few days ago because it was a planned script to distract Nigerians from the reality and main issues of this nation,” the user wrote.
Reacting differently, Odeyinde suggested that online criticism would have little impact on the administration. “Omo e too sweet me say this man no send una at all. Make una siddan for X dey drag them as if it will change anything,” the post read.
Watch the video here…
“My dear wife, First Lady, Iya Alakara.”
— President Bola Tinubu addressed his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, during the Presidential Press Corps Dinner last night, referencing her recent comments about akara business idea. pic.twitter.com/XhuJEi3o7e
— CHUKS 🍥 (@ChuksEricE) July 3, 2026