Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, has dismissed reports claiming he was denied the chance to greet Pope Leo XIV during the pope’s recent inauguration ceremony in Rome.
A viral video circulating on social media showed Seyi attempting to approach the pope, only to be stopped and redirected by Vatican security personnel.
The clip quickly sparked rumors that he was “bounced” or snubbed by the pope’s security team.
However, on Monday, Seyi shared the same video on his Instagram Story with a bold caption reading “Fake News!!!” — directly denying that he was intentionally blocked or disrespected.
While the footage does show security personnel redirecting the man, there has been no official confirmation from the Vatican that Seyi Tinubu was deliberately prevented from greeting the pope. Some observers suggest the security measures were part of standard crowd control during the large event.
Seyi was in Rome accompanying his father, President Bola Tinubu, who attended the historic inauguration Mass of Pope Leo XIV on Sunday, at St. Peter’s Square. The event drew thousands of attendees, including numerous world leaders and dignitaries.
President Bola Tinubu congratulated Pope Leo XIV on his election, describing it as a new chapter for the Catholic Church and expressing hope for ongoing collaboration between Nigeria and the Vatican to promote peace and development.
