Seyi Tinubu Blocked from Greeting Pope Leo XIV at Vatican Ceremony

In a notable incident at the Vatican, Seyi Tinubu, son of Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, was blocked from greeting Pope Leo XIV during the solemn mass marking the beginning of the new pontificate. While President Tinubu was warmly received and escorted by senior clerics to meet the Pope, Seyi Tinubu was prevented by a protocol official from approaching close enough for a handshake.

The event, held to honor Pope Leo XIV as the 267th Bishop of Rome and leader of the Roman Catholic Church, included invitations extended to world leaders, including President Tinubu. However, Seyi Tinubu was reportedly not on the official guest list and was stopped when he attempted to join his father in greeting the Pope.

The incident sparked criticism online, with one social media user describing it as “another national embarrassment on the world stage,” highlighting that while officials and dignitaries followed protocol, Seyi Tinubu tried to bypass the rules and was rightfully blocked by security.

Since President Tinubu took office, Seyi Tinubu has faced accusations of lacking direction and loafing, and this episode has only added to the public scrutiny of his actions.