Nigeria’s First Lady Clarifies Comments Amid Meghan Markle Controversy
Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has addressed claims that she criticized Meghan Markle’s choice of clothing during the Duchess’s visit to Nigeria with Prince Harry. The First Lady’s office has labeled these claims as misleading, stating that Oluremi Tinubu did not make any direct remarks about Meghan’s outfits.
The controversy stemmed from a speech given by the First Lady at an event titled “Celebrating the Woman,” which marked President Bola Tinubu’s first year in office and highlighted the significant contributions of women in various fields. During her speech, Oluremi Tinubu emphasized the importance of modesty in dress for young women, urging them not to mimic the revealing styles often seen in Hollywood.
Oluremi Tinubu’s office clarified through AFP Fact Check that her comments were not directed at Meghan Markle. In her speech, the First Lady stated, “We don’t accept nakedness in our culture. That is not beautiful. It is not beautiful at all. There are beautiful girls, but they should be confident to know who they are. They are mimicking and trying to emulate film stars in America.”
The First Lady did reference the Met Gala, known for its often revealing fashion choices, and mentioned Meghan Markle’s visit to Nigeria. However, she did not specifically criticize Meghan’s wardrobe choices during her trip.
During their three-day visit to Nigeria, Meghan and Prince Harry engaged in various activities, including an event focused on women in leadership with Nigerian-born World Trade Organization director Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. Meghan, who has Nigerian heritage, spoke about her connection to the country, referring to Nigeria as “my country” and highlighting the qualities of Nigerian women as brave, resilient, courageous, and beautiful.
Meghan Markle’s fashion choices during the visit, estimated to cost around £120,000, included high-end outfits such as a peach backless dress by Heidi Merrick and a strappy printed dress by Johanna Ortiz. Royal expert Jennie Bond commented on Meghan’s expensive wardrobe, suggesting it seemed out of touch with the economic realities faced by many Nigerians.
Jennie Bond remarked, “I personally have a bit of a problem with Meghan or anyone, including members of the Royal Family, wearing such expensive outfits and dripping with jewels that are worth thousands and thousands of pounds when you’re going somewhere like Nigeria. Personally, I don’t see how you do that; it feels a bit out of tune when most Nigerians are thinking where the next meal is going to come from.”
As of 2023, approximately 87 million Nigerians live below the poverty line, making it the country with the second-largest population of impoverished people in the world, following India.
