Toyin Abraham responds to backlash over kneeling to greet Okoya couple
Actress and filmmaker Toyin Abraham has addressed the backlash trailing her decision to kneel in greeting to billionaire couple, Razaq and Shade Okoya. The incident occurred at the 70th birthday
Actress and filmmaker Toyin Abraham has addressed the backlash trailing her decision to kneel in greeting to billionaire couple, Razaq and Shade Okoya.
The incident occurred at the 70th birthday celebration of former Ogun State governor, Gbenga Daniel, where a video showing the actress paying respects to the Okoyas circulated widely on social media.
Responding to the criticism, Toyin described herself as a true Omoluabi who remains committed to upholding Yoruba cultural values and traditions.
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She maintained that her actions were deliberate and rooted in respect, stressing that she would continue to kneel in greeting to individuals she considers deserving, irrespective of their social standing.
The actress also dismissed suggestions that her conduct diminishes her image or self-worth, noting that her gestures are expressions of cultural respect rather than acts of subservience or public display.
“As a true Omoluabi, I will always uphold our values and culture. I won’t stop kneeling to people who values and deserves it my darling, I will continue to go on my both knees to greet people who values and deserves it no matter the status", she said.
The backlash came from some fans who felt she overdid the kneeling gesture, especially towards people they believed were not significantly older than her.
One fan noted that while respect for elders and culture is important, Toyin should begin to carry herself with more pride and confidence, especially given her hard work and achievements in the industry.
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The user wrote: "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.
"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.
"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 cos you work hard for it and you deserve the respect that comes with it. I don’t mean any disrespect and I love you".
