A video of Olori Atuwatse III greeting the Olu of Warri at the Itsekiri Global Homecoming ceremony has ignited a heated online debate. The footage, shared on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, shows the queen crawling on her knees toward the monarch and bowing her head as he entered the venue to take his seat. The Olu of Warri responded by raising his ceremonial horsetail whisk before the queen rose and sat beside him.
Video Sparks Mixed Reactions on Social Media
The clip quickly spread across social media platforms, drawing strong and contrasting opinions. Some commenters defended the act as a deeply rooted Itsekiri royal tradition that deserves respect, while others questioned whether the expectation placed on the queen was too demanding, particularly in a public setting.
Instagram user @petijaenterprises wrote: "Even the English bow to greet their kings, talk more of royals in Nigeria leave our Queen mother for us. If e reach ur turn dance azonto." Another user, @saint_ndoo, commented: "is it my husband she will kneel for?"
Tradition vs. Modern Expectations
The debate reflects broader tensions between cultural preservation and modern views on gender roles. @tushar_drikxin01 stated: "Respect peoples culture and tradition," while @stardianabasi observed: "Mind you, he has the power to tell her not to, but he loves it. Imagine always kneeling down every time you and your husband are outside. God abeg!!!"
@posh.blogger shared: "Even me wey no marry Oba dey kneel for my husband if need be." Another user, @akintolapompeyay, noted: "is their tradition, as far as she aint complaining, there is nothing wrong in it."
Context of Royal Displays in Nigeria
This incident follows a similar viral moment from Olori Yetunde Oluwafunmilayo Tejuosho's 70th birthday celebration in Abeokuta. At that event, the 88-year-old monarch rejected a chair brought for his queen and gestured for her to sit on his lap while they posed for photographs. The heartwarming display of affection quickly went viral, with fans flooding the comments section with admiration for the royal couple and their loving bond.
The Itsekiri Global Homecoming ceremony continues to draw attention to the traditions and customs of the Itsekiri people, with the video of Olori Atuwatse III's greeting remaining a focal point of discussion among Nigerians online.
