A video showing veteran Nollywood actor Pete Edochie’s encounter with the Ooni of Ife has resurfaced online, sparking renewed arguments over traditional customs, respect for monarchs and cultural differences.
The footage began making the rounds on Instagram on Monday, September 7, 2026. It showed the respected actor arriving at an event with Kanayo O. Kanayo, while the Ooni was already seated at the venue.
How Pete Edochie Greeted the Ooni
When the monarch noticed Pete Edochie, he immediately stretched out his hand towards the actor.
The two men then engaged in a unique handshake before touching their chests as they exchanged pleasantries.
Throughout the brief encounter, the Ooni appeared pleased to see the actor and welcomed him warmly.
Nigerians Debate Edochie’s Greeting
The manner in which Edochie greeted the monarch quickly became a major talking point on social media.
Some Nigerians argued that anyone meeting a traditional king should show the appropriate level of respect by prostrating, regardless of the person’s ethnic background.
However, others rejected that argument, pointing out that traditional practices differ among Nigeria’s ethnic groups.
Those defending Edochie maintained that Igbo elders and titled chiefs have their own established customs and are not automatically expected to follow Yoruba royal protocols, especially when interacting outside Yoruba traditional settings.
Some supporters also drew attention to the Ooni’s reaction during the encounter. They noted that the monarch appeared comfortable and showed no visible displeasure, smiling as he interacted with the veteran actor.
Video Generates Reactions
The resurfaced clip has continued to attract comments from Nigerians, with social media users offering different interpretations of the encounter.
While some focused on the importance of showing deference to traditional rulers, others used the incident to emphasise that respect can be expressed differently depending on a person’s cultural background.
The controversy has consequently reignited broader conversations about Nigeria’s diverse traditions and the different forms of etiquette expected when people from different cultural backgrounds interact.
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