Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has publicly addressed the ongoing criticism he faces due to his well-known passion for dancing, emphasizing that his enjoyment of dance should not overshadow or undermine his commitment and effectiveness as a leader.
At a recent event attended by supporters and the media, Governor Adeleke spoke candidly about the frequent attention his dance moves attract on social media platforms, which have sparked both admiration and ridicule.
He highlighted that dancing is a form of personal expression that brings him happiness and relief from the stresses of governance, insisting it does not detract from his duties or responsibilities in any way.
“I ask everyone to stop judging me based solely on my choice to dance publicly. Dancing is a joyful expression of freedom and happiness for me. It is part of my identity and culture, and as long as it harms no one, it should not be a subject of criticism or condemnation,” Governor Adeleke stated with conviction.
The governor also pointed out that he is not alone in this practice among Nigerian political figures, citing prominent leaders who also express themselves through dance, yet do not receive the same level of scrutiny he endures.
“Leaders like Sanwo-Olu dance, President Bola Tinubu dances, and many others engage in this joyful act. There is no law or tradition that forbids a governor or any public servant from expressing joy through dance,” he remarked.
He urged the public, media, and political analysts to shift their focus away from his dancing and instead evaluate him based on his tangible accomplishments and governance record.
“I implore everyone to judge me by my governance, the policies I implement, and the development I bring to Osun State, rather than my hobbies or how I express myself,” Adeleke concluded firmly.
His statement comes amid a growing conversation about the cultural and social acceptance of public figures displaying personal joy, particularly in the context of Nigerian politics.
Watch the video below …
#WATCH!!!! Stop judging me just because I choose to express myself through dancing. It’s my joy, my freedom, and a part of who I am. If it makes me happy and doesn’t harm anyone, there’s no reason it should be condemned. Let people live and let joy be joy – – – – Governor Ademola… pic.twitter.com/1phquDre3E
— Authentic voice (@Authenticvoice6) May 15, 2025