APC Chieftain, Dr. Tony Obahieme, Defends Monday Okpebholo’s Gesture of Respect Amidst Viral Kneeling Video Controversy

In the wake of a viral video showing Edo State Governor-elect, Monday Okpebholo, kneeling before President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, reactions have surged across social media. Critics, particularly from the opposition, have taken the opportunity to voice their disapproval, accusing Okpebholo of subservience. However, APC Chieftain, Dr. Tony Obahieme, has spoken out, passionately defending the gesture, calling it a display of humility, respect, and cultural values.

Dr. Obahieme, known for his strong stance on leadership and governance, addressed the criticisms directly, stating, “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.”

According to Dr. Obahieme, the online backlash from PDP supporters and others is an unfortunate case of political manipulation aimed at distracting the public from the real 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 honor, especially towards elders. In many cultures across Nigeria, this is the highest form of respect,” he said.

Calls to End Cyberbullying and Political Trolling
Dr. Obahieme also took the opportunity to address the growing issue of cyberbullying and trolling in Nigerian politics. He expressed frustration over what he termed “unnecessary manipulation of political sentiments,” urging the opposition to focus on constructive dialogue rather than attempting to undermine acts of good character.

“We need to stop the trolling and the political manipulations. This is not what our country needs right now,” he said. “Monday Okpebholo is a leader who embodies humility, respect, and simplicity—values that are often overlooked in this social media age. His gesture should be seen as a sign of strength, not as something to criticize.”

The Importance of Humility in Leadership
Dr. Obahieme praised Okpebholo’s character, highlighting that the governor-elect’s gesture reflects a man who understands the importance of humility and respect in leadership. “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 stated.

He went on to note that Okpebholo’s humility is what sets him apart in a generation that often celebrates arrogance and bravado over decency and respect. “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.”

A Call for Unity
As Edo State gears up for a new chapter under the leadership of Monday Okpebholo, Dr. Obahieme called on all parties to move past political bickering and focus on the future 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.”

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The viral video has undoubtedly sparked widespread conversation, but for leaders like Dr. Tony Obahieme, the focus remains clear: respect for elders and the preservation of cultural values are non-negotiable, especially in positions of power. He hopes that this moment will serve as a reminder of the importance of humility in leadership and the need for unity in times of transition.

Conclusion: A Show of Humility, Not Subservience
In the end, Monday Okpebholo’s act of kneeling to greet President Tinubu has become more than just a viral video—it has sparked a conversation about leadership, humility, and the evolving role of tradition in modern governance. For Dr. Tony Obahieme, this is a moment to reflect on what true leadership entails: respect, humility, and a willingness to serve the people. As Edo State prepares to welcome a new governor, the focus must shift from criticism to collaboration for the betterment of the state and its people.