Pete Edochie sparks debate over industry status and cultural etiquette

Veteran Nollywood actor Pete Edochie has drawn attention through recent public statements and a viral social media encounter. During an appearance on the online show ‘Curiosity Made Me Ask’, Edochie asserted his standing within the Nigerian film industry, stating that he does not consider any of his colleagues to be on his professional level. He addressed previous claims regarding seniority in the industry, noting that he chooses not to engage with those who claim to be his equal or older in the profession.

Separately, footage of Edochie meeting the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, sparked online debate regarding cultural etiquette. The video showed Edochie and fellow actor Kanayo O. Kanayo exchanging handshakes with the monarch. The interaction led to discussions among social media users concerning whether Edochie, who holds a traditional Igbo chieftaincy title, should have bowed or prostrated according to Yoruba customs, or if his greeting was appropriate given his own cultural background and the monarch's gesture.