President Bola Tinubu has joked about a viral video where he tripped and fell, saying he was performing a traditional Yoruba gesture of respect.
In the video, Tinubu missed his step and fell while getting into a vehicle for a parade at Eagle Square on June 12, 2024, Democracy Day.
The president, who wore white native attire known as agbada, tried to save himself by holding the vehicle but ended up on the ground before his aides helped him up.
At the Democracy Day dinner on the same day, Tinubu humorously referred to the fall as a “dobale,” a Yoruba term for prostration, which is a sign of respect.
The president said, “June 12 represent the heart and soul of our democratic struggle in the country.
“Early this morning, I had a swagger and it’s on the social media. They are confused whether I was doing buga or doing babaringa but it is a day to celebrate democracy while doing ‘dobalee’ for today.
“I am additionally Yoruba boy, I did my dobale. Democracy is a day that is worthy of falling for.”
KanyiDaily recalls that former vice president, Atiku Abubakar expressed his concern and sympathized with President Bola Tinubu, saying, “I do hope that all is well with him.”