I Was Betrayed by Friends During 2023 Elections — Remi Tinubu – Newstelly

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has revealed that she struggled with fear, doubt, and feelings of isolation after the 2023 general elections, describing the period as one of the most difficult in her life.

In her newly released 52-page memoir, The Journey of Grace: Giving Thanks in All Things, launched to mark her 65th birthday, Mrs Tinubu recounted how the weight of stepping into the role of First Lady of Africa’s most populous nation left her questioning her readiness.

The book, divided into five chapters covering the years 2021 to 2025, carries a foreword by Dr. Folashade Olukoya of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries.

“As for me, I had a lot of mixed feelings, questioning my readiness and capability to function effectively and optimally as the First Lady of so great a nation as ours — a nation with over 240 million people from diverse cultures, ethnicities, languages, and religions,” she wrote.

According to her, the days leading up to her husband’s inauguration on May 29, 2023, were marked by weeping in private and a painful sense of betrayal.

“Despite the victory, I felt alone, weeping behind closed doors and wondering why I was betrayed by some of those I considered friends and spiritual family, many of whom I had opened up my home and family to,” she recounted.

She added that while some allies turned their backs on her, others became sources of comfort and reassurance of God’s purpose in her life.

Mrs Tinubu admitted to hosting what she described as “pity parties” during this period, often doubting her own strength.

“If you say, occasionally, I had a pity party, you are right, I really did. I thought about who to reach out to for support and counselling. It is good to have a spiritual guide, parent, teacher, mentor. I had one, who constantly reminded me of God’s promises and purpose for my life.”

The memoir gives a rare personal glimpse into the First Lady’s emotional battles and her reliance on faith as she transitioned into her current role.