A viral video shared by Nigerian singer, Teniola Apata, famously known as Teni, with billionaire socialite, Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun, an alleged notorious smuggler has ignited a social media outrage.
Reportedly, IBD Dende, a well-known figure in Nigerian social circles, often associated with wealth and influence, has faced allegations and controversies, particularly regarding his involvement in smuggling activities, as exposed by investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo.
Months ago, a report went viral where the alleged notorious kingpin was seen threatening to kill a customs officer who stopped his contraband goods from entering the country.
However, in the video, Teni is visibly thrilled to meet Dende, as she enthusiastically hails him with her hands before ultimately prostrating in front of him.
Netizens were quick to lambast Teni for what they deemed inappropriate behaviour, questioning the propriety of her actions on the plane.
Teni’s gesture of prostration towards Dende also sparked a flurry of reactions on social media, with some questioning her actions given the controversies surrounding Dende’s reputation.
A user, Carlo Gambino @Abdulherphyz posted, “Fisayo Soyombo spent 6 weeks reeling out many allegations of smuggling against this man; backed up with audio-visual evidence. His businesses and source of wealth have negative consequences for our country, corrupt authorities didn’t say anything and then here you are legitimising him. You should be ashamed of yourself.”
Another user, David G. Denzel@GodwinDenzel wrote, “Disrespected Buhari in public view to roll on the floor for IBD Dende! HYPOCRITE”
Another user, David Hundeyin’s Disciple @Chuc__kki tweeted: “And na criminals kee this one papa oh! She dey here dey celebrate same criminals. Her papa go dey turn for grave now….”
Bolu Adegbola @BoluAdegbola56 U also tweeted, “u are celebrating a known smuggler Teni. Teni, Aye e ti baje o.”
Another user, Winston Adaete @Adaete1 wrote: “A whole you bowing to a smuggling criminal? Because? It’s not like you’re even poor. What a society.”
Correct Bro @iamcorrectbro wrote, “Do celebrities care about the people or is it all about their pockets. “
Thanos Papa @steveabbey_ wrote: “Musicians are one of the biggest tools to criminal politicians. Teni can’t tell me she doesn’t know what he does. “
Also, Chidi Okereke @Chydee. Stated, “Anyways, let me give you the benefit of the doubt that you’ve not seen this before. This is the man you’re prostrating for, Ms Makanaki. Now you can’t say you don’t know what you’re doing. “
Alex Oluwatobi @alexlobaloba tweeted, “Naija is not getting better anytime soon.”
Dr. Joseph ONUORAH @JosephOnuorah tweeted, “This is not good for your image!”
