Seyi Tinubu's Vatican Encounter: A Lesson in Protocol

On May 18, 2025, during the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican, Seyi Tinubu, son of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, found himself at the center of an unexpected moment that quickly went viral.

As President Tinubu was led forward by senior Catholic clerics to greet the newly elected pope, Seyi Tinubu followed closely behind. However, just before he could approach the pontiff, a Vatican protocol officer intervened, politely halting him and redirecting him away from the greeting line. This moment was captured on video and rapidly circulated on social media platforms, sparking a flurry of reactions. TSB News Nigeria!

Some observers criticized the incident, suggesting it was an overreach by Seyi Tinubu. However, others defended him, arguing that he was simply following the delegation and that the protocol officer was enforcing standard procedures. The Nigerian presidency has not issued an official statement regarding the event.

The incident has been widely discussed across various media platforms. Some reports highlighted the protocol breach, while others emphasized the importance of adhering to established diplomatic procedures during such high-profile events. The event has also reignited conversations about the roles and conduct of individuals accompanying official state delegations.

This event occurs amid ongoing discussions about Seyi Tinubu's public engagements and his involvement in national affairs. While some view his active presence in political and social events as a sign of commitment to national development, others question the appropriateness of his involvement in certain official capacities.

For those interested in viewing the moment, a video capturing the incident is available: