Popular social commentator Reno Omokri has defended former presidential candidate Peter Obi after the latter was mocked online for showing courtesy to senior politicians during a recent event in Abuja.
Omokri argued that there was nothing wrong with Obi’s action, emphasizing that respecting elders and mentors should not be criticized. He explained that, while his own culture does not practice prostration, he has prostrated on rare occasions out of respect for others’ customs and personal bonds.
“Each time I have met President Bola Tinubu, I have publicly prostrated myself before him. I have also prostrated flat on the floor to a mentor of mine, an Otunba, in front of the Transcorp Hilton in the full glare of the public,” Omokri said, adding that Obi’s gesture mirrored similar acts of respect shown by other Nigerian leaders, including former President Goodluck Jonathan.
Omokri noted that Obi’s act, which occurred during the 60th birthday celebration of Distinguished Senator Aminu Tambuwal, should be commended rather than mocked. He also suggested that Obi’s slightly awkward posture may have been due to arriving late for the event, a rare deviation from his usual punctuality.
“Peter Obi respected the culture of his elders, like President Obasanjo and others. There is nothing wrong with it!” Omokri concluded.
