The governor of Ekiti State has sparked reactions on social media with viral pictures of him prostrating before elder statesman Afe Babalola. Afe Babalola, a distinguished Nigerian octogenarian, renowned lawyer, educationist, columnist, and founder of Afe Babalola University in Ekiti, will mark his 60 years of call to the bar on Monday, July 10.

In the pictures, Governor Oyebanji, who also serves as the leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State, can be seen prostrating in deep respect to greet the legal icon, following a traditional Yoruba cultural practice. The images were shared by journalist Arabinrin Aderonke, who expressed pride in the governor’s action and identified with him as the governor of her state.

Aderonke’s post read: “I am from Ekiti State, and here is my governor, a man I call BAO, greeting Afe Babalola SAN, another Ekiti man and elder statesman, in the Yoruba way, as it should be. We are wired and trained to always greet and accord our superiors the utmost respect. Proud of you, Governor BAO.”

While some Nigerians commended the governor for embracing and upholding cultural traditions, others called for him to translate such gestures into effective governance. Here are some reactions:

@realtopeomotayo praised the governor, saying, “Omoluabi Governor @biodunaoyebanji, a role model to the generations of Ekiti.”

@kunzybaba commented, “I hope he is effective in his role as Governor because greetings are not character.”

@KayKayl14 expressed, “The way we are trained in Ekiti, we never allow the position to override the strong values we hold. Well done, my dear Governor. You will always be honored too. God bless Ekiti State.”

@lanrejoda emphasized the significance of one’s inner disposition, stating, “Idobale ki ise iwa! It’s not how low you prostrate or the courtesy that determines if you respect the person! I appreciate the culture that demands this, but the state of the heart is much more important!”