Nollywood actress Toyin Abraham has responded to backlash following a viral video of her greeting the Okoyas at a recent event.
The actress was seen kneeling to greet Shade Okoya and her husband during a 70th birthday celebration, a gesture that sparked mixed reactions online.
Reacting to critics, Toyin stated that kneeling is a core part of her upbringing and identity, describing herself as a true ‘Omoluabi’ who values culture and tradition.
“I have seen the various opinions regarding the manner in which I greeted some elders at a recent event.
“It gives me pause to reflect on when we began to drift from our culture and traditions to the point where kneeling is now described as ‘abosi.’
“I, Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi, was raised to kneel when greeting those older than me. It is a value deeply rooted in who I am, and one I will continue to uphold with pride.
“I will remain intentional about passing these values to younger generations,” she said.
According to the actress, she was raised to kneel when greeting elders and sees nothing wrong with continuing the practice, regardless of public opinion.
Her response came after an X user criticised her action as unnecessary, while others defended her for respecting cultural values.
It will also be recalled that a few weeks ago, the actress went viral after allegedly being snubbed by Funke Akindele when she approached her seat at Iyabo Ojo’s movie premiere.
The incident, however, sparked tension online, with many speculating about an underlying feud between the two actresses.
@Precious008 said “Kneeling before an elder is a primitive tradition that doesn’t depict respect but is done only to the affluent.
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“You Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi would never kneel to greet a berger on the street that is obviously older than you.”
@YisaUthman said “Those complaining are people getting to know you recently, people that have been your fans and also meet you for long knows that’s who you are and also that’s how you act.
“The first time I met you was in Ibadan, I greeted you and you waved your hand at me”
@Layomi2008 said “I don’t have issues with you kneeling but permanently staying there and moving on your knees to greet people more than 10 for an event that is not yours ?That’s where I draw the line for someone of your personality.”
