Delta Health Commissioner Revokes Disciplinary Action Against Nursing Student Amidst ‘Na Your Mama’ Controversy

Health Commissioner Steps In to Protect Student Rights

In a decisive move that has captured the attention of many, Delta State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, has intervened to halt disciplinary action against Osato Edobor, a nursing student at the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences in Agbor. This decision comes after Edobor was accused of violating school rules by recording and posting a TikTok video during the visit of Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, to Asaba on March 25, 2025.

Naija News has learned that the situation escalated when the college administration accused Edobor of misconduct, claiming her actions were unauthorized and potentially damaging to the school's reputation. However, Dr. Onojaeme swiftly intervened, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding students' rights, even in challenging circumstances.

Background of the Controversial Event

Let me break it down for you. The First Lady's visit was part of the Renewed Hope Initiative Health Programme, an effort aimed at improving the healthcare sector in Nigeria. During this event, 10,000 professional kits, including scrubs and Crocs, were distributed to midwives across the South-South region. It was a significant gesture meant to uplift healthcare professionals and acknowledge their hard work. But as we all know, sometimes the best intentions can lead to unexpected reactions.

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The controversy began when the Master of Ceremony (MC) referred to Senator Tinubu as "everyone's mother." In response, nursing students, including Edobor, voiced their disagreement with the phrase "Na your mama be this," which translates to "This is your mother." Their reaction quickly went viral, sparking debates about respect, representation, and the current state of the nation under President Bola Tinubu's leadership.

College's Initial Reaction and Dr. Onojaeme's Intervention

The Delta State College of Nursing Sciences reacted swiftly by issuing a formal letter to Edobor, labeling her post as "malicious" and demanding a written explanation within 24 hours to avoid further disciplinary measures. The school accused her of violating regulations by making unauthorized recordings and sharing them online.

But here's where things get interesting. Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, the respected Commissioner for Health, stepped in and overruled the college's decision. In an official statement, he explained, "The Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, has directed the immediate withdrawal of the query issued to Nursing Student Osato Edobor by the Provost of the School of Nursing Sciences, Agbor." He went on to add, "This decision stems from a commitment to ensuring that the rights of every student in health sciences and related health programmes are upheld."

Dr. Onojaeme's intervention highlights a broader issue about balancing authority and individual rights, especially in educational institutions. It sends a powerful message: students have voices, and those voices deserve to be heard, even when they challenge the status quo.

Public Reaction and Broader Implications

While the exact motivation behind the students' reaction remains unclear, it cannot be ignored that this incident occurs amidst growing concerns about economic difficulties and security challenges under the current administration. Many Nigerians are grappling with these issues daily, and this event has become a lightning rod for deeper discussions about governance, respect, and accountability.

Despite the controversy, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori praised Senator Tinubu's contributions to the health sector, stating that Nigeria is undergoing a positive transformation in healthcare. This acknowledgment of progress underscores the complexity of the situation: while there are legitimate grievances, there are also commendable efforts being made to improve the nation's healthcare system.

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As the dust settles, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of open dialogue and mutual respect in navigating societal challenges. Whether you agree or disagree with the students' actions, one thing is clear: their voices have sparked a conversation that extends far beyond the walls of the nursing school.