Tinubu on Dramatic Fall: I’m a Yoruba Boy, I Prostrated for Democracy

President Bola Tinubu has humorously described his fall at the Eagle Square in Abuja on Wednesday as a show of respect for Nigeria’s democracy.

Tinubu, 72, fell while trying to mount the parade truck at the ceremony to mark Nigeria’s 25th year of democracy in Nigeria on June 12, 2024.

After the dramatic incident, people nearby quickly helped get him back on his feet. The vehicle then took him around the venue as he waved to Nigerians and guests present.

Expectedly, a video of the fall instantaneously went viral on social media. While some Nigerians, including Peter Obi sympathised with him, many others mocked him, an emotion believed to have been fuelled by the current hardship in the country. 

At a democracy day dinner held later on Wednesday, President Tinubu recalled the incident with amusement, dousing national tension.

“I am traditionally a Yoruba boy, I did my dobale (Prostrating). Democracy is a day that is worthy of falling for,” Tinubu said in part.

He added: “Early this morning, I had a swagger and it is on social media that they are confused whether I was doing Buga or doing Babariga, but it is a day to celebrate democracy while doing dobale (prostrating) for the day.”

President Tinubu also spoke of the disputed minimum wage, noting that he would only agree to a figure that’s sustainable based on Nigeria’s financial capability.

Social Media’s reaction to Tinubu’s fall: