According to The Nation Online, Nollywood powerhouse Toyin Abraham has spoken out to defend her adherence to traditional Yoruba values, specifically the act of kneeling to greet elders. This public statement comes amidst a brewing rift with fellow actress Funke Akindele, which intensified after Abraham reportedly unfollowed Akindele following a perceived snub at a recent movie premiere.
Abraham insisted that her upbringing, which emphasizes deference through physical gestures, remains central to her identity and is not an act of “eye-service” or pretense. The tension between the two “Queens of the Box Office” has captivated Nollywood fans, as both actresses continue to dominate the domestic film market with record-breaking projects.
Vanguard News confirmed the friction, stating, “The silent war between Toyin and Funke has become more visible as fans take sides in the cultural debate.” Pulse Nigeria also reported, quoting Abraham: “I was raised to kneel when greeting those older than me; it is a value I will continue to uphold with pride.”
**Echotitbits take:** This is more than just a greeting; it’s a battle for the soul of Nollywood’s “top spot.” By framing the rift around cultural values, Toyin is appealing to a traditionalist fanbase. This “cold war” usually precedes a massive box-office showdown, so watch for both actresses to announce competing projects for the upcoming holiday season.
Source: The Nation Online — https://thenationonlineng.net/toyin-abraham-defends-kneeling-to-greet-elders-rejects-abosi-tag/ Leadership April 11, 2026
Photo Credit: The Eagle Online
