Toyin Abraham defends kneeling before Shade Okoya, others

Nigerian actress Toyin Abraham has pushed back against criticism of her practice of kneeling to greet people at social events, maintaining that she has no intention of abandoning the gesture for those she believes deserve it.

The film star made her stance clear on Saturday via X while responding to a fan, Lady Victoria, who had cautioned her against what she described as excessive and unnecessary kneeling, arguing that it could be misinterpreted as seeking attention or diminishing self-worth.

“I’m a fan of Aunty Toyin Abraham but this her unnecessary kneeling down and greeting is becoming too much and looking like an eye service now. It’s ok to respect elders and cultures but those women she keep kneeling for are not so older than her,” Lady Victoria wrote.

“Aunty Toyin, you need to start packaging yourself now. That’s why they keep disrespecting you. They are not more than you, they are not bigger than you. Stop belittling yourself for them.”

The reaction followed a video from the 70th birthday celebration of former Ogun State governor Gbenga Daniel, where Abraham was seen kneeling to greet prominent businesswoman Shade Okoya, her husband Rasaq Okoya, and other notable guests.

Responding to the criticism, Abraham reaffirmed her commitment to the cultural practice.

“I won’t stop kneeling to people who value and deserve it, my darling. I will continue to go on my both knees to greet people who value and deserve it no matter the status,” she wrote.

The fan also referenced Abraham’s support for President Bola Tinubu during the 2023 general elections, which had previously sparked backlash online.

“We Nigerians have forgiven you for supporting City Boy in 2023. It’s time you forgive yourself too and carry yourself with pride and grace,” Lady Victoria wrote.

Abraham did not respond to that part of the comment.