December 07, (THEWILL) – Salamatu Gbajabiamila, wife of the 9th Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, is known for her shocking and weird fashion statements in designer clothes. The 53 year-old woman has no qualms acquiring the latest trends in fashion, but when it comes to putting ensembles together, she throws caution to the wind and makes bizarre appearances in public. Despite being criticised several times for her fashion choices, Salamatu seems unperturbed by the opinion of her critics. A few days ago, criticism and backlashes trailed one of her recent fashion statements when her picture surfaced online.
Salamatu was tongue lashed for wearing a few fashion items and accessories estimated to be worth N12 million in a manner that was far from tasteful. In the picture, the dark complexioned woman wore a brown Gucci jacket, which is estimated to cost $2,340 (equivalent of N2.6 million); a pair of pink platform shoes with a price tag of $3,500, which is almost (N2 million). She also had on a Rolex wristwatch, which cost $11,000 (N6.05 million). Her mini handbag didn’t come cheap. Made of Lambskin by Italian fashion house, Bottega Veneta, it is estimated to be worth $2,661 (N1.4 million).
Many Nigerians were dismayed that she could spend all of N12 million, which they alleged was taken from public funds but be unable to put it all together stylishly. According to critics, despite the outrageous amount spent, Salamatu still looked ‘tacky, crazy and unkept’ like a student going for a rag day celebration. They frowned at her choice of colour combination, while advising her to get a stylist. However, some fans are of the opinion that her style is eccentric, peculiar to her and should be respected.
This isn’t the first time that she or members of her family would face criticism over their dress sense. About three years ago, her husband stepped out in a Gucci Heritage wool jacket and pants worth N1.2million during her 50th birthday celebration. He was castigated for his fashion sense, which many labeled as trashy. Also during his inauguration as the Speaker of the House of Representative in 2019, Salamatu faced a backlash for her choice of sunglasses, which she wore during the ceremony. Many felt the style of the sunglasses, which were ‘larger than life’ and obscured most of her face, was anything but appropriate for such an important political event.
