One of the earliest aspirants for the Kogi East senatorial ticket under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Joseph Ameh Erico has responded to the criticisms that followed a viral video showing him kneeling before the Accountant General of the state, Dr. Habibat Oyiza Tijani Onumoko in her Okene home, seeking endorsement for his aspiration.
The video which garnered tons of critics expressing their disappointment on Erico for kneeling before a woman to curry political favor.
Responding in a statement, Erico stated Onumoko is a chieftaincy title holder and he owed no one any apology for respecting a constituted authority.
“For the avoidance of doubt, I wish to categorically state that I owe no one any apology for recognizing, honoring, and respecting constituted traditional authority. The title “Ebule-Jonu of Ankpa Kingdom” was duly and honorably bestowed upon Chief (Hajia) Dr. Habibat Oyiza Tijjani by His Royal Highness, the Ejeh of Ankpa, in line with the customs and traditions of the Igala Kingdom.
“It is important to emphasize that on the day of her coronation, she was elevated as by a First-Class Chief, and in keeping with the rich cultural heritage of our people, all present including myself paid due respect to the stool by kneeling in reverence as her title was proclaimed. This act was not only appropriate but also a demonstration of deep respect for the institution of traditional leadership, which remains a cornerstone of our identity as a people.
“As a proud son of Ankpa Federal Constituency and a firm believer in the sanctity of our customs and traditions, I hold the authority of the Ejeh of Ankpa in the highest regard. My actions were guided purely by this respect and my commitment to preserving the dignity of our cultural values. There is absolutely nothing wrong in honoring a duly recognized traditional title holder, regardless of status or gender.
“Furthermore, during our recent Eid-el-Fitr homage visit, Chief (Hajia) Dr. Habibat Oyiza Tijjani herself demonstrated utmost respect for Igala tradition and customs, further reinforcing the unity and cultural pride we all share,” he said.
He urged the public to disregard attempts to misrepresent his actions, and called for promotion of unity.
