Dr. Adetunbi Saheed Ige, a lecturer at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), has become the center of attention after a video surfaced showing him enthusiastically dancing to and promoting Saheed Osupa’s latest album, “Phenomenon,” right from his office.
The footage, shared by the renowned Fuji musician himself, captured Dr. Ige immersed in the beats of the new album, raising eyebrows and eliciting mixed reactions from the Nigerian public.
Osupa wrote, “Dr. Ige , a lecturer from department of Agricultural Sciences, LAUTECH…sent to my inbox
“Indeed there’s power in music. I’ve lost home training trying to memorize the new Album.
Students and people around saw different side of me this morning.”
“The lyrical arrangement is top-notch. Fans must push for a Grammy nomination for this particular album. Miming the Album Phenomenon is my office task today
“In my own response “The trending virus is called ‘PHENOMENON'”
While some view his actions as a simple endorsement of the musician’s work, others argue that it raises questions about professional conduct.
Watch the controversial video here
LAUTECH lecturer, Dr Saheed Ige, sparks reactions for promoting Saheed Osupa's new album "Phenomenal" during office hours#music#RecordBreakingSalaar #oouwhy #CloserThanThis #Prague #ImranKhan #vivekbindra #vibes pic.twitter.com/cqnWvMsdry
— Akeem Alao (@akeemalao_B) December 22, 2023
Legal practitioner Abdulwaheed Badmus expressed concern, describing Dr. Ige’s actions as a potential conflict of interest.
This viewpoint underscores the debate surrounding the appropriateness of a lecturer engaging in promotional activities during official working hours.
Badmus wrote, “Conflict of interest, Yes or No? Any breach of labour labour law, contract between LAUTECH and Dr. Ige? Can Dr. Ige be sacked for misconduct, dereliction, misconduct and engaging in order business activity (product branding) while on his official duties?
“Can a bank manager, School Principal or Inspector General of Police or Traffic Warden? do this when in his official office, even when on break?”
However, not everyone sees it in the same light. Dr. Oladoyin Odebowale, Senior Special Assistant, Special Duties & Strategy to Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Òndó State, offered a different perspective, suggesting that there might be no harm in the lecturer enjoying the music during his break.
“I do not think there is any serious conflict of interest displayed here. He is not making money from it from what I see. He may, however, be sanctioned for dereliction if it is established that his passion for music is impeding the effective discharge of his duties as a lecturer,” Dr Odewale wrote.
Kamaldeen Kola-Afolabi said, “Adetunbi Saheed Ige Nice vibes sir! Weldone to King Saheed Osupa Akorede. Kindly encourage other artists especially the Afrobeat one, that already attest to you dexterity, to promote the music on their platforms. You have really tried, you are really due for Grammy award and I think strategic placement and promotion of your productions will assist in getting the right attention for the nomination.”
Muideen Kolawole Adedeji said, “Dr ige is not the only one facing that challenge, concentration is very hard to achieve with the lyrics. More strengths King of music.”
The video has sparked a broader discussion on the boundaries between personal interests and professional responsibilities, leaving Nigerians divided over whether Dr. Ige’s vibes are an innocent expression of musical appreciation or an ethical gray area that demands scrutiny.
Reactions from fans to the new album
Saka Luqman wrote, “I streamed it side A & B throughout yesterday while driving. Can’t seems to get enough of it. The more I listen to the album the more I want to listen to it.
“I have been following Osupa since Fuji Vadisco when I was in Junior Secondary school. I am now a Professor of Political Science at University of Ilorin and remains an avid follower.”
Oladele Olasheu Akorede reacted, “You are the institution of music After Agbajelola Barusatiee May Allah continue to count him among his loyal servants, May you too live long to enjoy your efforts in Fuji industry.”
Oladapo Korede said, “Have been listening to it since yesterday morning and i have not getting tired even nah only PHENOMENON i go listening to for the rest of the year.
Kudosto you OBA ORIN
YOU’RE TRULY THE GURU OF MUSIC.”
Olanrewaju Mustapha wrote, “Obaorin this album is the best album of the year you deserve Grammy award keep doing the great job and reigns forever insha Allah .”