In the midst of a social media uproar over a contentious video clip depicting his greetings, Ahmed Musa, the captain of the Super Eagles, has justified his actions.
He explained that his actions were a display of cultural respect while urging for focus to be shifted to the urgent issues affecting the country.
Musa's comments come after a video circulated online on Monday, showing him shaking hands with the Kano State deputy governor while appearing to disregard Governor Abba Yusuf, despite bowing to him.
However, in response on Tuesday, Musa stated, "I have become aware that a moment captured almost a month ago has unexpectedly become the center of attention on social media. It is disheartening to see a simple act of cultural respect blown out of proportion." statement Explaining the significance of his gestures, the footballer emphasized the deep-rooted traditions of the Northern culture.
"In our Northern culture, the gesture of kneeling, shaking hands, etc. signifies the highest form of respect. This was my intention when I greeted the deputy governor in such a manner."
"However, when it came to greeting the governor, I chose to bow and not shake his hands, honoring him in a way that is deeply rooted in tradition," he explained.
Ahmed Musa expressed disappointment that the incident has garnered such widespread attention, even from national media outlets, diverting focus from more pressing matters facing the country.
"It's unfortunate that amidst all the pressing issues our nation faces – economic hardships, security challenges, religious clashes, and more – this seemingly insignificant moment has garnered so much attention," he lamented.
The former Leicester City striker added, "What's even more disheartening are the comments questioning my respectfulness, especially from those who don't know me personally."
Musa urged Nigerians to redirect their energy towards finding solutions to the nation's problems rather than getting caught up in needless distractions.
"Let's pause for a moment and reflect on where we choose to direct our energy. Shouldn't it be towards finding solutions to the problems plaguing our society rather than getting caught up in needless distractions?"
Ahmed Musa urged people to focus on addressing real issues instead of distractions. He called for unity and collaboration in working towards a better future for all.
"I urge us all to channel our collective efforts towards addressing the real issues at hand. Let's focus on uplifting one another, fostering unity, and working towards a better future for all," he concluded.
I didn’t shake gov’s hands out of respect – Ahmed Musa
Amid a social media storm surrounding a controversial video clip showing his greeting gestures, Super Eagles captain, Ahmed Musa has defended himself.
He described his action as a sign of cultural respect while calling for… pic.twitter.com/URHBpEvEdY
— Punch Newspapers (@MobilePunch) April 2, 2024
