Nigerian singer Oluwafemi Oladapo, better known as Slimcase, has found himself at the center of social media criticism after a viral video showed him prostrating to greet fellow artist Burna Boy.
The clip, which has stirred significant conversation online, captures Burna Boy entering a club where Slimcase is seen lying flat on the floor in a traditional gesture of respect. Interestingly, in the same video, Slimcase is shown greeting music veteran D’banj while standing upright, which further fueled reactions from netizens.
Many social media users expressed shock and disapproval, pointing out the age disparity between the two artists. Slimcase, 42, is nearly a decade older than Burna Boy, who is 33.
This sparked debates about the appropriateness of the gesture, with some labeling it unnecessary and others interpreting it as a display of an inferiority complex. One user, @Black_dillane, sarcastically remarked, “Shey na Slimcase dey prostrate for Burna or make Burna lie flat gree am,” questioning the perceived hierarchy implied by Slimcase’s actions.
Criticism of Slimcase’s gesture continued with comments accusing him of overstepping traditional norms of respect. @SABT2108 commented, “Inferiority complex, SMH,” while @zenny_zenas echoed similar sentiments, saying, “That’s inferiority complex.”
Another user, @softwalk_boiz, expressed their disappointment, writing, “Na wa for Slimcase, can’t he just greet normally? Oversabi.” These reactions highlight the cultural expectations around age and respect within Nigerian society, where traditional greetings often hold significant meaning.
While Slimcase has yet to address the controversy, the incident has reignited conversations about the dynamics of respect in the entertainment industry, particularly when it comes to interactions between artists of varying levels of fame.
For some, the act was seen as humility, while for others, it was viewed as an exaggerated display that undermined Slimcase’s standing as a respected artist. The debate underscores the complex interplay of tradition, status, and public perception in the Nigerian music scene.
