Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has a message for critics obsessed with his dance moves: focus on the work, not the rhythm.
Tired of being judged for expressing joy through dancing, Adeleke didn’t mince words. He urged those criticising him to “desist from doing so.”
According to him, it’s unfair and shallow to dismiss his political strides simply because he chooses to dance in public.
“Stop judging me just because I choose to express myself through dancing. It is my joy, my freedom, and an essential part of who I am,” he said in a recent appearance. “If it brings me happiness and harms no one, then there is no reason it should be condemned.”
The governor, often dubbed the “Dancing Senator” before taking office, made it clear that his passion for dance doesn’t take away from his performance. In fact, he sees it as an extension of his personality open, vibrant, and deeply connected to the people.
In a viral video currently circulating on X, Adeleke challenged the double standards in political criticism: “(Babajide) Sanwo-olu is dancing. Everybody is dancing. Even Baba (Bola) Tinubu is dancing. So, no law says that just because you are a governor, you can’t dance.”
His comments drew applause from supporters, many of whom argue that Nigerian leaders should be allowed to be human, joyful, expressive, and approachable while still being held accountable for their results.
Backing Adeleke’s stance, music star Davido, his nephew, recently declared that the governor is “the best governor Osun State has ever seen.”
According to him, those who mocked Adeleke for his dancing now have to reckon with his impressive track record.
Adeleke’s administration has faced skepticism from day one, much of it centered on his public persona. But his supporters say he’s proven that competence and charisma can go hand in hand.
So, the question remains:
If a governor delivers results, does it really matter if he dances while doing it?