Ace TV host Riyah Abdul has criticised a Delta State Governor’s aide, Mr Success, following his decision to offer ₦500,000 to the young lady who recently went viral for addressing billionaire businessman Tony Elumelu by his first name.
Riyah questioned the motive behind the offer, telling Mr Success to “check your morals” and arguing that the incident goes beyond the money being offered.
According to the television host, Nigerians should be careful not to abandon their cultural values in an attempt to embrace Western lifestyles.
“We cannot keep incorporating the Western life. That is not us. We are Africans. We have culture,” Riyah said.
She stressed that respect for elders remains an important part of African and Nigerian culture, noting that customs differ across the country.
Riyah further pointed out that in some parts of Nigeria, younger people are expected to kneel when greeting elders as a sign of respect.
Her comments have added to the ongoing public debate over the viral incident, with Nigerians divided over whether addressing an older and highly respected personality by his first name should be considered disrespectful or simply a reflection of changing social norms.
The controversy has continued to generate reactions online, particularly over the decision to offer the young woman ₦500,000 following the incident.
