Dare Babalola
Reno Omokri, a prominent Nigerian commentator and former aide to President Goodluck Jonathan, has come to the defense of former Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, over his recent gesture of respect to former President Olusegun Obasanjo and some other dignitaries at a recent function.
In a statement via his social media pages on Sunday, Omokri slammed critics who have mocked Obi’s actions, saying showing respect to elders and mentors should not be ridiculed.
“There is absolutely nothing wrong with what Peter Obi did here. Showing respect to your elders and mentors should not be mocked.”
Omokri explained that in his culture, kneeling is a way to greet elders and those in authority, and he recalled prostrating flat three times in his life as a sign of respect for others’ cultures and friendships.
He cited examples of other prominent Nigerians, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, who publicly showed respect to elders, emphasizing that Obi’s actions were in line with Nigerian cultural norms.
“Peter Obi respected the culture of his elders, like President Obasanjo, and others. There is nothing wrong with it!” Omokri said, adding that Obi’s slight awkwardness was due to his tardiness, which is understandable.
Omokri concluded by commending Obi for his gesture, saying, “For the act of showing respect, Peter Obi should be commended, not condemned!”
