BREAKING: "Why I Didn't Shake Hands with Kano Gov Yusuf", Ahmed Musa Opens Up

• Ahmed Musa, former Nigeria forward, has explained the reason he did not shake hands with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano while he had a handshake with the deputy governor
• The former Super Eagles captain explained that his action was culturally informed and expressed disappointment over different interpretations on social media
• Musa said bending down for the elderly was the highest form of respect in the northern region where he is from

Legit.ng journalist Bada Yusuf is an accomplished politics and current affairs editor, boasting over seven years of experience in journalism and writing.

Kano - Former Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa has broken the silence on the controversies trailing his decision to reject a handshake from Kano state governor Abba Kabir Yusuf in a viral video.

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In the trending video, the former Nigerian international was spotted at the government house in Kano in April.

The 2013 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) winner in South Africa was seen having a handshake with the Kano state deputy governor.

However, he only bent before Yusuf when the latter attempted to shake his hand.

Nigerians on social media have read different meanings to the video. Some alleged he ignored the handshake from the governor.

Why Ahmed Musa didn't shake Yusuf

But Musa, in an Instagram post on Tuesday, April 2, said his action was a sign of cultural respect.

The footballer added that he was surprised that the situation was taken out of context on social media.

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Musa's statement reads in part:

"It’s disheartening to see a simple act of cultural respect blown out of proportion. In our Northern culture, the gesture of kneeling, shaking hands, etc signifies the highest form of respect.”

“This was my intention when I greeted the Deputy Governor in such a manner. However, when it came to greeting the Governor, I chose to bow and not shake his hands, honouring him in a way deeply rooted in tradition."

Below is Musa's Instagram post:

Video of Musa rejecting Governor Yusuf's handshake

Legit.ng earlier reported the handshake incident involving Musa and the Kano governor.

Musa, a former Super Eagles captain, was said to have visited the Kano state government house.

The player was seen in a video declining to shake hands with the governor after a handshake with the deputy.

Source: Legit.ng