Renowned Nigerian gospel singer Yinka Alaseyori recently found herself in the company of Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, joined by other prominent dignitaries at a high-profile event. According to sources cited by GoldMyne, this notable meeting took place during the 80th birthday celebration of Olori Aramide Oniru, an occasion attended by some of the region’s most influential figures.
Amidst the celebrations, a brief video clip emerged online, sparking discussion well beyond Nigeria’s shores. Viewers highlighted not just the significance of the encounter, but particularly the respectful way Alaseyori greeted Governor Sanwo-Olu. Reportedly, the singer knelt to offer her greetings—a gesture widely recognized in Yoruba culture as a mark of deep respect and humility, particularly when meeting elders or persons of authority.
Known in the music industry not only for her emotive gospel hits but also for her humility, Alaseyori’s action at the high table resonated strongly with cultural values cherished by many across Yoruba communities and beyond. Her choice to kneel was not only a personal expression of respect but also a reaffirmation of traditions that continue to play an influential role in Nigerian society.
Following the event, discourse erupted online as viewers dissected the symbolism of Alaseyori’s greeting. While many fans and cultural commentators praised her humility, others engaged in broader conversations about generational attitudes toward tradition and respect, reflecting ongoing debates about evolving social norms in West Africa.
Credit: yinkalaseyori
Source: Instagram
Sharing a clip of the encounter with her followers on Instagram, Alaseyori added a thoughtful caption reflecting on the importance of gratitude and the enduring power of respect in her personal and professional journey. Her post quickly gained traction, attracting congratulations, praise, and critical reflections from audiences both in Nigeria and across the global diaspora, exemplifying the reach of modern social media platforms.
“A heartfelt thank you to His Excellency, the Governor of Lagos State, Gov Jide Sanwo-olu and the Deputy Governor, His Excellency Femi Hamzat @femihamzat My mama, Mummy Abimbola fashola for honoring this moment with your presence and the beautiful gift of love. Your support and kindness added even more grace to a day already rich with joy and legacy. To my big fathers and mothers, I sincerely appreciate you all. Eshey ganni Modupe.”
In a related celebration of positive milestones, Alaseyori reportedly welcomed her third child in Canada, as reported by Nigerian media outfits. The singer, who has often shared snippets of her life and music with fans, posted about her gratitude for a smooth pregnancy journey, highlighting just how intertwined her personal joys are with her public persona. In her social media update, she expressed thanks to her son for making those crucial nine months comfortable, noting that she could continue her activities virtually unchanged—a sentiment that resonated with many parents and fans across different communities.
https://www.instagram.com/p/DOeGXHjgmiW/?hl=en
of Yinka Alaseyori with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and others at an event is below:
Yinka Alaseyori kneels to greet Sanwo-Olu, reactions
The event and the viral video did not go unnoticed by the Nigerian online community. Various reactions quickly poured in, especially across platforms like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). While some followers perceived Alaseyori’s gesture as an inspiring affirmation of cherished values, others used the occasion to critique or reflect on changing societal expectations about hierarchy, celebrity, and public decorum.
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@torobabs:
“She’s a wise woman who understands the principle of honour.”
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@aremo_hibee_dende:
“When she came to our hotel Naso she Dey kneel down great all staff she even give us money sweet woman much love.”
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@jarefamous:
“Alaseyori ….. I love this woman songs, attentions, attitudes, her personality, her smiles….. her voice is so pure and powerful. I listen to her music every day.”
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@lajaadesanya:
“When such opportunity come your way, you can stretch hand to governor say how far , you can even stretch hand for Tinubu say how you dey.”
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@queen_indisputable:
“Humble and Stable I repeat God Grace will never seize from you sister mii🙏Keep giving me danceable and lovable songs I love you so much sis mii.”
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@nicegp4rea:
“Oya I want to see how she greet her husband at home No hate though just want to confirm something it’s all love God bless u alaseyori.”
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@anita__chi:
“It’s not eye service, she does this frequently when greeting… just like u when u go down a bit when greeting , kneeling is her own style.”
Cultural commentator and Lagos-based historian Dr. Olumide Adebajo told Nowahala Zone, “In Nigeria, kneeling or bowing before elders, especially in formal and traditional settings, signifies the highest form of respect. While some younger Nigerians may see these customs as old-fashioned, many still view them as vital expressions of identity and integrity.”
Other voices online debated whether public figures should feel compelled to uphold these traditions under all circumstances, or if there is space for reinterpretation as societal values evolve. Some highlighted how figures like Alaseyori bridge generations, blending respect for the past with a dynamic, modern outlook in their public image.
The Experience 19: Yinka Alaseyori shares obstacles
Alaseyori’s career, marked by her commitment to faith and authentic self-expression, has not been without its challenges. According to media reports, the gospel star recently spoke candidly about difficulties she faced with her backing band following a successful performance at “The Experience,” one of Lagos’ most renowned Christian concerts. Two weeks before the major event, Alaseyori revealed that she made the painful decision to disband eight members of her twelve-person band. This disclosure shed light on the complex realities behind the scenes of live performances, especially in Nigeria’s vibrant but competitive gospel music scene.
Industry insiders note that personnel changes in musical ensembles are not uncommon in West Africa, where artists often grapple with limited resources, creative differences, and the demands of increasingly international audiences. Alaseyori’s willingness to be transparent about these hurdles has garnered both sympathy and admiration from fellow musicians and fans, who see her resilience as emblematic of the grit required to survive in Nigeria’s music industry.
“Disband 8members of 12team member 1wk to Warri and 2wks to the experience,” she wrote.
Nigerian entertainment observers point out that Alaseyori’s story is a microcosm of broader trends in the African music ecosystem, where balancing tradition with innovation, and personal convictions with professional pressures, is a daily challenge. According to industry analyst Chidera Okonkwo, “The ability of artists to navigate both cultural expectations and the realities of modern entertainment is what sets enduring stars apart from fleeting phenomenon.”
As the viral moment continues to fuel debates in Nigeria and the West African diaspora, it’s clear that Alaseyori’s influence extends beyond music, sparking dialogue about identity, decorum, and the evolving relationship between celebrities and cultural heritage.
Looking at these events, it’s evident that the intersection of tradition, modernity, family, and professional integrity remains a vibrant space for public conversation in Nigeria and beyond. Alaseyori’s approach to public engagements and her openness in sharing personal milestones offer valuable lessons for aspiring artists and fans alike.
How do you perceive the place of tradition in today’s rapidly changing entertainment culture, both in Nigeria and across Africa? Should public figures always uphold customs, or is there room for reinterpretation in modern contexts? Drop your opinion in the comments and don’t forget to follow us for more stories that matter!
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