The kneeling down by governor-elect of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, to greet President Bola Tinubu, during his recent visit to Aso Rock Vill in Abuja, has been described as a show of humility and not subservience.
Reacting to a viral video showing the Edo State governor-elect, Monday Okpebholo, kneeling before President Tinubu, which sparked widespread reactions on social media, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Tony Obahieme, dismissed the backlash from critics, particularly those aligned with the opposition.
“Our beloved President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is over 70 and is a father figure to many in this country. Monday Okpebholo’s act of kneeling to greet him is not a sign of weakness but rather a reflection of his deep respect for both the man and the office he holds,” Obahieme stated.
He expressed dismay over the online criticisms, which largely came from supporters of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Obahieme labelled the attacks as political manipulation aimed at distraction from substantive issues. “It’s disheartening to see people twist such a simple act of respect into something negative. Kneeling is a traditional form of greeting that conveys humility and honour, especially towards elders. In many cultures across Nigeria, this is the highest form of respect,” he explained.
Obahieme also addressed the growing trend of cyberbullying and trolling in Nigerian politics, criticising the manipulation of political sentiments online. He urged the opposition to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to undermining acts of good character. “We need to stop the trolling and the political manipulations. This is not what our country needs right now. Monday Okpebholo is a leader who embodies humility, respect, and simplicity—values that are often overlooked in this social media age,” he noted.
Obahieme further emphasised that Okpebholo’s gesture reflected a deep understanding of humility in leadership, an essential trait for those serving the people. “Monday Okpebholo is a man of native intelligence who understands the struggles of the Edo people. His actions show that he is not just a politician but a servant leader who is willing to put his people first,” Obahieme praised.
He contrasted Okpebholo’s humility with the bravado often celebrated in modern politics, commending the governor-elect for standing out as a leader grounded in respect and cultural values. “In an era where social media has made everything about appearances, Monday Okpebholo stands out. He’s a man of rare humility and culture—someone who knows that leadership isn’t about posturing, but about serving.”
As Edo State prepares for a new chapter under the leadership of Okpebholo, Dr. Obahieme called for unity among all political factions.
He urged stakeholders to move beyond political bickering and work towards the collective progress of the state.
“We are entering a new era for Edo, and it’s time to unite for the progress of our people. Monday Okpebholo is prepared to lead with dignity and respect. Let’s focus on supporting him as he works to uplift Edo and address the needs of the people,” Obahieme said.
For Dr. Obahieme, the viral video is a reminder of the importance of respect, humility, and the preservation of cultural values in leadership.
As the conversation around Okpebholo’s gesture continues, Obahieme hopes it will shift towards a more meaningful discourse on the true qualities of leadership in Nigeria.
